Bishop James Ruggieri of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Portland is weighing in on the death of Pope Francis.
Ruggieri has called Francis’ legacy is one of mercy and compassion and asked for Francis’ mission of hope to be carried out.
“I, on behalf of the faithful of the Diocese of Portland, and along with the universal Catholic Church, mourn the loss of our Holy Father, Pope Francis,” said Bishop Ruggieri. “His legacy will be one of mercy and compassion, but also of hope. In this Jubilee Year, may we honor Pope Francis by carrying on his mission and living as pilgrims of hope.”
The Vatican confirmed Pope Francis died at age 88 early Monday morning.
He passed away after making a public appearance for an Easter Sunday blessing at the Vatican’s St Peter’s Square. He also briefly met beforehand with U.S. Vice President JD Vance.
The Pope had suffered from chronic lung disease and had part of one lung removed as a young man. He was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli hospital on Feb. 14, for a respiratory crisis that developed into double pneumonia. He spent 38 days there, the longest hospitalization of his 12-year papacy.
