Archbishop Thomas J. Rodi, of the Archdiocese of Mobile, released a statement early Monday following Pope Francis's death.
Rodi remembered Pope Francis as "a remarkable leader who devoted his life to service of God and neighbor." He also said it was "fitting" that the Pope passed the day after Easter Sunday.
"With sadness and a profound sense of loss, we learned today of the death of Pope Francis. He was a remarkable leader who devoted his life to service of God and neighbor. He was constant in urging the nations of the world to strive for peace. He was a man of humility and compassion who was tireless in his concern for the weak, the poor, and the forgotten. Even after 38 days in the hospital, and being advised by his doctors to rest and avoid crowds, Pope Francis spent Holy Thursday visiting inmates at Rome’s prison. He truly had a pastoral heart and encouraged the Church to go out to those who felt neglected and to bring the love of God to them.
Yesterday, on Easter Sunday, we celebrated the Lord’s triumph over death. We believe the Lord is risen. It is fitting that the Lord has called Pope Francis to Himself on this first day of the Easter season. With faith in the Lord’s promise of eternal life, we entrust our Holy Father to the love and mercy of God. May the Lord welcome Pope Francis home with those words found in the Bible: “Well done, good and faithful servant.” (Mt 25:23)
Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and may eternal light shine him. May he rest in peace.
Rodi has been calling for prayer for Francis since his illness was announced earlier this year. In 2019, Rodi visited the Vatican to report on the Archdiocese of Mobile.
In 2023, Rodi said he was "always guided by the teachings of the Holy Father" when he agreed to follow Francis' declaration to bless same-sex couples.
Pope Francis died at 7:30 a.m. Monday in Rome after being hospitalized with pneumonia for several weeks.
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