It is with great sadness that we share the news of Pope Francis’ death, announced by the Vatican at 7:35 a.m. local time this morning.
The first member of the Society of Jesus to hold the papal seat, and the first born in Latin America, Pope Francis shared his vision with all of us for a more unified world and how we as Christians can preserve it by caring for our common home. He was formed by the Spiritual Exercises of Saint Ignatius and used them as a basis for his discernment and decision making. He will always be remembered for his emphasis on mercy, and the way he insisted we walk with the poor, the immigrant and those on the margins of society.
Pope Francis’ impact was felt in the hearts of millions around the globe and here at Marquette in countless ways, including meeting our alumni and current students studying abroad or visiting Rome and our students being immersed in his inspirational Synod on Synodality.
We join the worldwide church in mourning his loss. As we mourn his death, it’s important to remember to celebrate his life’s work, his worldwide impact, as we pray for his entrance into the kingdom of heaven.
Rev. John Thiede, S.J.
Vice President for Mission and Ministry
Lord, Bring Us Peace As We Mourn
Based on Matthew 5:4
By Megan Sheehan
Blessed are those who mourn,
For God will comfort them.
Lord, let us trust in your comfort,
Let us trust in your love.
As we grieve, we feel loss,
Though we know we are blessed.
Blessed to express gratitude
For our companions on the journey.
Companions on earth,
And companions in heaven.
Blessed to know that
You have conquered death.
Blessed to hold in our hearts that
You are the Way, the Truth, and the Life.
Blessed in community
To carry one another,
To share love,
To share memories.
Now, more than ever
May we cling to the life you promise.
May we remember that,
With Your grace
We are all walking toward Your light.
With you, we are walking toward home.
Lord, bring us peace as we mourn.
Amen.
