My Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
 
By now, most of the Christian world is aware of the death of His Holiness, Francis, our Pope, who passed away this Easter Monday morning.  Just a day earlier, on Easter Sunday, he offered his final Urbi et Orbi blessing—a beautiful and grace-filled farewell to the Church he so faithfully shepherded.
 
Since his passing, tributes have poured in from across the globe—heads of state, religious leaders, scholars, and faithful Catholics alike, and those of other religious traditions—each giving voice to the immense legacy of this humble Jesuit from Argentina. Our own bishop, the Most Rev. Jacques Fabre-Jeune, CS, joined many others in praising Pope Francis’s unwavering witness to mercy, compassion, forgiveness and acceptance guided by the unconditional love of Christ. His life was a sermon of hope for the poor, the marginalized, and those searching for meaning in a complicated world.
 
It is only natural that we feel sorrow at his sudden passing—much like the grief we encounter at the loss of a loved one. But as Easter people, we know that death is not the end. The resurrection of Jesus fills our hearts with hope of our own resurrection one day from the dead. We believe, deeply and joyfully, that life conquers death, and that God’s love endures forever.
 
Pope Francis’s death touches us not only as Catholics but as members of the human family. In his words and deeds, he reminded us that every soul is sacred, and every life—whether celebrated or forgotten—is held in God’s eternal embrace. We remember his call to walk together in love, humility, and service. Now, we entrust him to the mercy of God, confident that the Good Shepherd has welcomed him home. Let that bring all of us comfort as together we experience the days and weeks ahead, proclaiming the same last words as did Pope Francis, “Christ is risen.”
 
As we pray for the peaceful repose of Pope Francis’s soul, let us also pray for the College of Cardinals, that they may be guided by the Holy Spirit in choosing our next Holy Father. May the Church continue to be led by a shepherd after Christ’s own heart. In these days of mourning, may we also find comfort in our faith, in one another, and in the promise of eternal life. Let us give thanks for the gift of Pope Francis’s life and carry forward his message of mercy and joy.
 
May he rest now in the arms of Mary, our Mother, and in the presence of the Risen Lord.
 
In Christ’s Peace,
 
Rev. Msgr. Richard D. Harris