Leaders in Michigan are paying tribute to the life of Pope Francis after his death.
The first Latin American pontiff died Monday. He was 88.
Francis had recently spent 38 days in the hospital for double pneumonia, but on Easter Sunday, he greeted thousands of people in St. Peter’s Square, a day before his death.
He performed the blessing from the same loggia where he was introduced on March 13, 2013, as the 266th pope.
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer released the following statement after Francis’ death:
“Pope Francis was an inspiration to countless Michiganders and people around the world. He led with grace, compassion, and humility. He fought against poverty and called for action on climate change, economic injustice, and peace. He reminded us that the true measure of one’s devotion to God comes in one’s devotion to others. Pope Francis was a leader who called on all of us to live up to our better selves. As we celebrate his life and mourn his death, let us live by the values he believed in—love, mercy, and compassion for all.”
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer
Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist released the following statement:
“Pope Francis was a compassionate leader who fought for forgotten communities and made a difference for people all over the world. He will be greatly missed by so many Michiganders. Let us celebrate and build on Pope Francis’ legacy by pledging to follow in his footsteps and work together to build a brighter future for the state we love.”
Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist
Here’s part of the statement from Archbishop Edward J. Weisenburger of the Archdiocese of Detroit:
“It is with immense sadness that I share with the faithful of the Archdiocese of Detroit that our beloved Holy Father, Pope Francis, has died. My heart is heavy as our world has lost a powerful, prophetic, and loving voice. However, I also rejoice in what I pray will be a blessed reward of joy beyond all understanding for a truly great and loving Universal Shepherd.
Our Holy Father once said, “Some people want to know why I wished to be called Francis. For me, Francis of Assisi is the man of poverty, the man of peace, the man who loves and protects creation.” While it is impossible to measure Pope Francis’ impact on our Church and world, I believe the three aspects he referenced will be a lasting influence."
Archbishop Edward J. Weisenburger, Archdiocese of Detroit
To read his full statement, visit here.
