The Arizona Catholic community is actively engaged in mourning and reflection following the death of Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 88 after suffering a cerebral stroke. In a somber statement by Vatican officials obtained by FOX 10 Phoenix, Cardinal Kevin Farrell announced from the Domus Santa Marta yesterday, "At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of his Church."
Residents of Phoenix, both within and beyond the Catholic faith, have begun to publicly honor the departed pontiff. Ceremonies remembering Pope Francis are scheduled, including a mass at St. Mary's Basilica today and another at Ss. Simon & Jude Cathedral on April 27. A recent mass held at St. Mary's Basilica drew dozens to mourn together. Deacon Roy Drapeau commented on the poignant timing of the Pope's passing, telling AZFamily, "I don’t think this is a coincidence… his death being at this time." He found comfort in the connection to the Easter season, describing it as "very comforting, and he was our shepherd all the way to the very end."
In the wake of Pope Francis's death, Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs ordered flags to fly at half-staff, honoring his legacy. Bishop John Dolan of the Diocese of Phoenix expressed his reflections on the Pope's global impact, emphasizing his commitment to inclusion and the marginalized. "Pope Francis was a man of accompaniment, walking alongside the poor, the marginalized, migrants, refugees, and the displaced. His heart was always with those on the peripheries, and he tirelessly advocated for their dignity and rights. His most recent Synod on Synodality provided a roadmap for the Church’s future, one rooted in encounter and listening. ‘Todos, todos, todos,’ he would say—everyone belongs in the conversation, for the Church is the home of all," Dolan said in a statement, as reported by AZFamily.
Educational institutions and political leaders also offered their sympathies and spoke to the Pope's influence. Sister Joan Fitzgerald, BVM, President of Xavier College Prep, recognized Francis's "unwavering commitment to compassion, justice, and humility." On the other hand, Gov. Hobbs, acknowledging the state's nearly two million Catholics, honored the Pope as "a lifelong unwavering advocate for human rights." Multiple public figures, including Sen. Mark Kelly, praised his advocacy for the "marginalized," and "all who suffer from injustice." These reactions underscore the deep feeling that Pope Francis's passing has indeed created a notable void—"We have lost a compassionate and courageous voice," as State Rep. Mariana Sandoval poignantly stated, as per a report by AZFamily.
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