Catholic Social Services Australia (CSSA) joins the global Catholic community in profound sorrow as we acknowledge the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, who returned to the house of the Father at 7:35 am (Vatican time) this morning.
“Today, we have lost a shepherd whose unwavering commitment to the poor and vulnerable has been the cornerstone of his papacy,” said Dr Jerry Nockles, Executive Director of Catholic Social Services Australia. “Pope Francis’s call for a ‘poor Church for the poor’ has been a guiding light for our organisation and the countless Australians we serve.”
Throughout his 12-year pontificate, Pope Francis consistently challenged Catholics and people of goodwill to encounter those on the margins of society. His encyclicals Laudato Si’ and Fratelli Tutti inspired our network to deepen our commitment to ecological justice and universal fraternity.
The Holy Father’s emphasis on mercy and compassion aligned perfectly with CSSA’s mission to uphold the dignity of every person and to build communities where all can flourish. His teachings have shaped our advocacy and service delivery across Australia, particularly in remote and disadvantaged communities.
“We pray: ‘Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul, and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace’,” said Dr Nockles.
In this time of transition, CSSA recommits itself to the vision Pope Francis championed – a Church that reaches out in love and service to those most in need. We hold hope for the future of our Church and trust in the Holy Spirit’s guidance in the selection of a new pontiff.
CSSA invites all Australians to join us in prayer for Pope Francis, for the Church, and for our continued mission to bring Christ’s love to all, especially the most vulnerable among us.