Federation of Diocesan Liturgical Commissions
As we mourn the death of Pope Francis, so many tributes might be offered, so many memories come flooding back. In his tenure as Supreme Pontiff, there were many remarkable changes, yet so many traditions upheld.
He will be remembered for his warm smile, genuine interest in others, and his engaging personality — just a few ways in which he spread the joy of the Gospel (Evangelii gaudium). He called us all to holiness, to live the Beatitudes, to “rejoice and be glad” (Gaudete et exsultate). He reminded all of us of the sanctity of marriage (Amoris laetitia). He was a passionate advocate for the protection of God’s Creation and the equitable distribution of the earth’s resources (Laudato si and Laudato Deum). He called us to respect the human dignity of all people – constantly and courageously – in every personal encounter, in travels to countries and continents, and when meeting with heads of states. He gave us a roadmap for this in his landmark encyclical Fratelli tutti.
He dialogued with other religious leaders worldwide, seeking genuine understanding and respect. He was not afraid to meet with nor confront the world’s politicians. He was a vocal proponent of peace between warring nations. He was a constant advocate for the poor and the marginalized. He was a genuine champion of the immigrant and the refugee.
And to each of us who serve the Church’s liturgy, he was a true defender of the vision of the Second Vatican Council. He reinforced the authority of Bishops’ conferences (Magnum principium). He told us to be “guardians of the tradition” (Traditiones custodes). He reminded us that the participation of the people required their formation – for the liturgy, by the liturgy, with rich symbols, and artful celebration (Desiderio desideravi).
He called all of us to a new way of being Church – to listen to each other and to the Holy Spirit as we dialogued on contemporary issues. Knowing the power of prayer, he invited us to focus on a Year of Mercy, on a year of Saint Joseph, and, wisely, on a Jubilee Year of Hope. With a shepherd’s heart, he reminded each of us and all of us what we could be and the power of living genuinely as followers of Christ.
In all of these ways, he called us to unity. Together, then, we give thanks to almighty God for this Vicar of Christ, this Servant of the servants of God, and for our dear brother, Pope Francis. May he rest in the arms of the Risen Christ. ▪
Rita Thiron, Executive Director
Washington, DC | April 22, 2025