Local Catholic leaders pay tribute to pope

In the hours after the world learned of the death of Pope Francis on April 21, people and institutions around the world released statements and tributes to the late pontiff. Here are excerpts of some of them:

Cardinal Cupich

I have received word that our Holy Father, Pope Francis, has died. In this moment of profound loss for me personally and for the Church, I take this moment to express our gratitude to our Heavenly Father for the gift of his papacy and to pray for the repose of his soul. The finest memorial we can offer is to re-form our hearts as Pope Francis asked — to see our brothers and sisters, to listen to them and to offer our prayers and actions that all may experience the fullness of God’s promise. As we mourn his passing, I ask that God comfort us, but also strengthen us to remain steadfast in carrying on the work of restoring our Church’s place in the world as a source of hope and an advocate for those in need.

University of St. Mary of the Lake/Mundelein Seminary Rector/President Father John Kartje

To the formation of future priests and lay ministers, he brought a renewed emphasis on human and pastoral formation, not simply proclaiming the profound dignity of every person but also challenging would-be leaders in the Church to act with courageous compassion to seek out the marginalized and embrace them with the love and joy of the Gospel.

Catholic Theological Union President Sister Barbara Reid, OP

Catholic Theological Union joins the rest of the Church and world in giving thanks for the extraordinary leadership of Pope Francis for these past twelve years, and we rejoice in the hope that he is now enjoying the fullness of God’s presence, whom he loved and served so well in this life.

We pray that we may become more fully the Church that he called us to be: more compassionate, inclusive, non-judgmental, forgiving, centered on the Gospel, a church for the poor, a field hospital for the wounded, a people committed to care for our common home.

Loyola University Chicago President Mark C. Reed

As the Loyola University Chicago community mourns Pope Francis, we feel immense gratitude for the wisdom he shared with us.

He had a special affinity for young people, and through generous interactions with our faculty and students, he encouraged all of us to engage with the world. He exemplified the ways our Jesuit educational mission melds expertise with compassion in service to others. He exemplified the notion of accompanying new generations into a hope-filled future.

DePaul University

Through his emphasis on synodality, he encouraged us to dialogue with those who are different from us. He inspired us to build bridges — to collaborate, engage in meaningful dialogue, and seek shared purpose, even with those with whom we disagree.

His vision for the world was rooted in compassion, justice, and the flourishing of all people. Through his example, we were invited to look beyond our own interests and into the heart of the common good, to act as stewards of our common home, and to embody God’s love in how we serve, teach, and live together..

Saint Xavier University

Pope Francis energized and inspired us through his great care for the poor, vulnerable and marginalized, environmental stewardship, advocacy for peace and justice, and dedication to modernizing the church to become more inclusive. Pope Francis’ papacy will be remembered for its steadfastness in emphasizing synodality so that together, we can listen and learn, foster respect and understanding, address challenges, and better respond to the needs of the world.

Dominican University

The first Latin American pope, Francis inspired us with his mercy, joy, and hope for everyone: “Todos, todos, todos.”

This Easter Monday, the day before Earth Day, we honor Pope Francis by committing ourselves more fully to the pursuit of truth and love. In this Jubilee Year of Hope, we are inspired by Francis’ conviction, “that education bears within itself a seed of hope: the hope of peace and justice; the hope of beauty and goodness; the hope of social harmony.”

Kolbe House Jail Ministry

“Why them and not I?” It’s what Pope Francis asked himself every time he left a prison. The last time was only four days before he died. For the incarcerated, he was “Our Pope.” No one loved people in custody more than he. His passing leaves us grieving a death in our family. We are grateful for his raising up of those who live on the world’s margins. We are comforted by the knowledge that we have another patron in heaven.

Nilma Osiecki, principal of Pope Francis Global Academy

He taught us to lead with mercy, to serve the poor and marginalized, and to move about this world with inclusivity, conversation, and peace. He challenged us to radically commit to our faith and to love. May our teachings, our presence, and our service reflect the light of his legacy in our school, our Church community, and beyond ...