New York City and New England public figures expressed their sorrow at the passing of Pope Francis, who died today at the age of 88. NYC Mayor Eric Adams and Gov. Kathy Hochul joined a chorus of leaders sharing their grief and honoring the late pontiff's legacy. In a statement, Hochul said, "He embodied the values Christ taught us every day: Helping the less fortunate, calling for peace, and ensuring every person is treated as a child of God." According to Gothamist, Adams noted that meeting with the pope was one of the most sacred and special moments of his life.
Pope Francis' final Easter blessing as hundreds of thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square highlighted his enduring plea for peace and freedom across various expressions of thought and beliefs. Regarded as a transformative figure, the pontiff had also been recently hospitalized for double pneumonia as reported by the Gothamist. Following traditional protocols, Cardinal Kevin Farrell, camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, was set to oversee a death rite in the Vatican.
In New England, the impact of the pope's death was similarly felt, as echoed by spiritual leaders and politicians. Boston Archbishop Richard Henning revealed his personal gratitude for the pope, remarking, "In his ministry and across his writings he has continuously called us to deeper faith and to a more generous participation in the boundless compassion of God. He has challenged us to turn away from selfish impulses and towards communion with others and respect for God's creation. I am personally grateful that he called me to the Episcopacy and entrusted me with the pastoral care of the Church of Boston. His example remains a guiding light to the Universal Church. Through the intercession of Our Blessed Mother and Saint Joseph, may he rest in peace." Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey, Sen. Ed Markey, and other politicians publicly acknowledged the loss, highlighting Francis' dedication to climate issues, immigrant communities, and the working poor. In a statement obtained by NBC10 Boston, Healey celebrated Francis' commitment to others, especially the vulnerable.
Catholic Charities Boston lamented the death of the pontiff, describing him as a guiding light for millions and a model for a compassionate society. Reflecting on Francis' urging to combat discrimination against migrants and refugees, the charity resolved to continue empowering the vulnerable, as reported by NBC10 Boston. Both leaders and followers alike shared in the sentiment that Pope Francis' teachings will continue to resonate and inspire long after his passing.
_FXD.jpg){kind=link}