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Religious and government leaders shared their reactions to the loss early this morning of Pope Francis.
The Vatican reported Pope Francis, a voice for the poor who overcame fierce resistance to reshape the Catholic Church, died on Easter Monday at the age of 88, CNN reported.
New York Archdiocese Archbishop Cardinal Timothy Dolan pointed out the timing of the Pope’s death.
Despite his poor health, Pope Francis was seen a number of times in public at the Vatican during Holy Week, culminating in an Easter Sunday appearance where he delighted crowds at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.
“I join with people all over the world, not only Catholics, but people of all faiths or none at all, in mourning the passing of our beloved Pope Francis this morning,” Cardinal Dolan said in a press release. “How appropriate that his last public appearance was on Easter Sunday as we celebrated the joy of the resurrection of Jesus whom Pope Francis loved so deeply and so well, and right after our Jewish brothers and sisters, for whom Pope Francis had such great love, concluded their celebration of Passover.
“I was honored to participate in the conclave that elected Pope Francis in 2013, and to have welcomed him here to New York in 2015. He touched us all with his simplicity, with his heart of a humble servant. Trusting in the tender and infinite mercy of Jesus, we pray that he is, even now, enjoying his eternal reward in heaven.”
Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont shared his thoughts on Pope Francis.
“Leading by his words and example, Pope Francis was one of the most inspiring Popes and spiritual leaders of my lifetime, at a time when we needed him most,” the governor said on X. “He brought people together, teaching mercy, compassion and reconciliation. I join Catholics across the world in mourning.”
New York Gov. Kathy Hochul remembered his legacy.
“I join Catholics around the world in mourning the loss of Pope Francis,” Hochul said. “He embodied the values Christ taught us every day: Helping the less fortunate, calling for peace, and ensuring every person is treated as a child of God. We should all strive to carry on his legacy.”
Rockland County Executive Ed Day celebrated the Pope’s many achievements.
“My heart breaks along with the millions around the world in mourning the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis,” Day said. “As a spiritual leader, he was a beacon of humility, compassion, and unwavering faith. His papacy was marked by a deep commitment to serving the poor, advocating for peace, and bridging divides between people of all backgrounds and beliefs.
“Pope Francis inspired countless individuals through his words and actions, calling on us to care for one another, to protect our planet, and to lead lives rooted in love and understanding. His legacy will continue to guide generations to come.”
