I was saddened to learn of the Holy Father’s passing this morning in Rome. Pope Francis was a clarion voice for the poor of the world, and all those on the periphery of society, challenging us all to see in them the face of God.
I will be forever blessed by the memory of my meeting with the Holy Father 2 years ago. At that meeting, responding to a question I asked, he reminded those present that “everyone, everyone, everyone, everyone should be welcomed. We are all brothers and sisters seeking the Lord.”
As the Universal Church marks our Jubilee Year of Hope and as pilgrims on this journey of hope, may the humble manner in which Pope Francis conducted his papacy serve as a model for us all.
I ask that the Catholic Community of western Massachusetts pray through the Intercession of our Blessed Mother, who was so dear to our Holy Father, for the repose of the soul of this holy and humble servant of God.
Bishop William D. Byrne