Pope Francis, the beloved head of the Catholic Church, passed away on Monday, April 21, 2025, just one day after participating in Easter festivities. The 88-year-old pontiff had recently returned to work following a long hospitalization but continued to struggle with lingering health issues related to pneumonia. His death marks a significant moment in the history of the Catholic Church, as he was the first Jesuit and Latin American pope, having assumed the papacy in 2013 after the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI.
In a heartfelt statement, the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints expressed their condolences, stating, "We join the world in mourning the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. His courageous and compassionate leadership has blessed countless lives. We extend our heartfelt condolences to all who looked to him for inspiration and counsel. As the world pauses to remember his example of forgiveness and service, we feel deep gratitude for the goodness of a life well lived and rejoice in the hope of a glorious resurrection made possible through the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ." This sentiment reflects the deep respect many have for the late pope's leadership and his efforts to reach out to marginalized communities.
Pope Francis had a profound impact on the Catholic Church during his 12 years as pope, steering it toward a more inclusive and compassionate direction. His approach included outreach to migrants, victims of sexual abuse within the Church, and LGBTQ+ individuals, fostering a welcoming environment for all. His efforts to connect with diverse groups were noted by many, including leaders from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, who acknowledged his ability to inspire and counsel.
President Russell M. Nelson of the Latter-day Saints shared a memorable encounter with Pope Francis during a historic meeting in the Vatican on March 9, 2019. This meeting marked the first time a leader from the Latter-day Saints met face-to-face with a sitting pope. Reflecting on their time together, President Nelson remarked, "We had a most cordial, unforgettable experience with His Holiness. He was most gracious and warm and welcoming. What a sweet, wonderful man he is, and how fortunate the Catholic people are to have such a gracious, concerned, loving, and capable leader." This meeting highlighted the common values shared between the two faiths, including a commitment to alleviating human suffering and promoting religious liberty.
In addition to his compassionate leadership, Pope Francis was known for his ability to connect with people on a personal level. During his papacy, he made significant strides in addressing issues within the Church and fostering dialogue among different faiths. His approach was characterized by humility and a genuine concern for the well-being of others, which resonated with many around the world.
The Vatican announced Pope Francis's death via a statement on social media platform X, revealing that he had appeared in a wheelchair to bless the faithful in St. Peter's Square just a day before his passing. This public appearance served as a poignant reminder of his dedication to his role, even in the face of health challenges. Following his death, a Memorial Mass of the Dead is scheduled for Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at 5:15 p.m. in the Cathedral of the Madeleine in downtown Salt Lake City, allowing the community to come together in remembrance of the pope.
In accordance with Catholic tradition, funeral rites for Pope Francis will last nine days, culminating in a ceremony that honors his life and legacy. The process of selecting the next pope must begin within 15 to 20 days after a pope's death or resignation, setting the stage for a new chapter in the history of the Catholic Church.
Throughout his papacy, Pope Francis was a proponent of interfaith dialogue and collaboration. In November 2014, he warmly greeted President Henry B. Eyring of the Latter-day Saints during a marriage summit at the Vatican. This encounter was significant as it marked one of the first direct interactions between a pope and a leading Latter-day Saint authority, further emphasizing the importance of building bridges between different faiths.
As the world reflects on the legacy of Pope Francis, many will remember him for his unwavering commitment to social justice, compassion, and inclusivity. His efforts to reach out to the marginalized and his call for unity among different faiths will continue to inspire future generations. The Latter-day Saints, along with millions of Catholics and others around the world, join in mourning the loss of a leader who dedicated his life to serving others.
Pope Francis's passing comes at a time when the Catholic Church faces numerous challenges, including addressing past abuses and navigating the complexities of modern society. His leadership style, which emphasized empathy and understanding, will be deeply missed as the Church seeks to move forward in a rapidly changing world.
In summary, the legacy of Pope Francis is one of compassion, courage, and a commitment to serving humanity. As the Catholic Church prepares for the transition to a new leader, the teachings and values he championed will undoubtedly influence the direction of the Church in the years to come.
