I am deeply saddened by the passing of the Holy Father, Pope Francis, on Easter Monday. His humility, faith, and service to God and the faithful left an indelible mark throughout the world. Hallmarks of his papacy included advocating for the poor, environmentalism, interfaith dialogue, support for immigrants, and Catholic Church reform. I especially appreciate his love and support for the people of Nashville after The Covenant School shooting in March 2023.

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When Pope Francis succeeded Pope Benedict XVI in 2013 as the 266th Bishop of Rome, he became the first Jesuit pope, the first Latin American pope, the first pope from the Americas, and the first non-European pope in more than 1,000 years.

 

We take solace in his lasting legacy to live with compassion, courage, and grace. Though we mourn his loss, we continue to “journey together in hope,” just as Pope Francis has invited us to do this Jubilee Year.

 

I was appointed the 12th Bishop of the Diocese of Nashville by Pope Francis in November 2017. In my two meetings with him, all that he asked of me and the faithful of Middle Tennessee was that we pray for him. So, in this moment, we continue to honor Pope Francis’ request. In the light of our hope in the Resurrection of Jesus Christ, let us offer up a prayer.

 

Let us pray: O God, faithful rewarder of souls, grant that your departed servant Pope Francis, whom you made successor of Peter and shepherd of your Church, may happily enjoy forever in your presence in heaven the mysteries of your grace and compassion, which he faithfully ministered on earth.

 

Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever.

 

Amen.

 

Most Reverend J. Mark Spalding, D.D., J.C.L.

Twelfth Bishop of Nashville