SCRANTON – On Monday, April 21, 2025, the Most Reverend Joseph C. Bambera, Bishop of Scranton, released the following statement upon the death of Pope Francis.
“I join with Catholics from the Diocese of Scranton and around the world today in grieving the death of our beloved Holy Father, Pope Francis, who returned to the house of our Heavenly Father in the morning hours of Easter Monday, shortly after sharing his blessing upon the world on Easter Sunday.
“While we feel an overwhelming sense of loss, we are comforted by the incredible legacy of love, compassion and mercy that Pope Francis bestowed upon the Church – a legacy that will continue to inspire and guide us well into the future.
“Pope Francis will long be remembered as a shepherd who drew us all closer to the heart of Christ. During his 12 years as pope, and more than 50 years as a priest, Pope Francis made it his mission to share the endless compassion of God. His words, which I have often quoted in my homilies, always pointed us toward the essential truths of our faith – that God is love, that mercy is the cornerstone of our salvation, and that our mission is to reflect that divine mercy in our daily lives.
“During one of the defining moments of Pope Francis’ papacy, his proclamation of the Year of Mercy in 2015-2016, he called the entire Church to reflect on the richness of God’s mercy, reminding us that we are all invited to experience and share this mercy with one another, especially those most in need. His focus on God’s mercy – and that no one can be excluded from it – was not just an abstract teaching. It permeated his words and actions, from his encounters with the poor and marginalized, to his tireless efforts to foster peace and reconciliation around the globe.
“Pope Francis’ ministry was a living witness to the Gospel message. By putting Christ at the center of his life, he was able to demonstrate his great love for the poor, was able to use his voice to call for the care of creation, and worked tirelessly to build bridges of understanding among all Christians.
“Like so many people, I will never forget Pope Francis standing alone, delivering a blessing in an empty, rain-slicked Saint Peter’s Square in March 2020, during the height of the coronavirus, bringing hope to a desperate world. During those days, while so many were facing fear, isolation, and uncertainty, through his words and actions, Pope Francis reminded the world that Christ – and the Eucharist – are our true signs of hope.
“As we mourn the passing of Pope Francis, I ask the people of the Diocese of Scranton to offer their prayers for the peaceful repose of his soul. May God grant him the gift of eternal life and bring comfort to those who mourn his passing.
“In gratitude for his life and teachings – I will celebrate a special Diocesan Memorial Mass for Pope Francis on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at 12:10 p.m. at the Cathedral of Saint Peter in Scranton. All are invited to attend.
“Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen.”