“Rivers do not drink their own water; trees do not eat their own fruit. The sun does not shine on itself… Living for others is a rule of nature.” - Pope Francis
With deep sorrow and profound gratitude, we join the global community in mourning the passing of Pope Francis, who passed this morning in Rome at the age of 88.
His passing, just one day after Easter Sunday – the holiest day of the Catholic/Christian calendar – offers a poignant reminder of the hope and renewal he so often preached. Even in grief, we are reminded of the light he brought into the world.
Pope Francis led with compassion, humility, and a fierce commitment to the most vulnerable among us. As the first Latin American and Jesuit pope, he broke barriers - not just within the Church, but across borders, hearts, and ideologies. He was a voice for the poor. A champion for immigrants. A servant-leader who lived simply and loved boldly.
At Catholic Charities of Northwest California, Pope Francis was more than a global religious leader - he was a guidepost. His ministry reminded us that faith must be lived through action, and that the Gospel calls us to encounter, accompany, and lift up those on the margins.
In the words of our CEO, Jennielynn Holmes:
"Pope Francis helped the world see what we at Catholic Charities witness every day: the inherent dignity of every person, no matter their status, story, or struggle. He reminded us to walk with love, to speak with grace, and to serve with courage. His leadership inspires us to continue our work with deeper resolve and compassion."
Today we pause to reflect on his extraordinary legacy - a legacy built not on power, but on proximity. On washing the feet of the imprisoned, on breaking bread with the poor, and on standing shoulder to shoulder with the displaced. He was not afraid to speak uncomfortable truths, and he never lost sight of the Gospel’s call to justice.
He often spoke of a “culture of encounter” – a way of life that listens, serves and loves without judgement. And that is exactly what our team and community strive for every day. Through presence, patience, and care, we carry forward the compassion and dignity Pope Francis championed through his life.
As an agency rooted in Catholic Social Teaching, we will continue to honor his life not only with our prayers, but with our daily work - walking alongside our unhoused neighbors, welcoming the immigrant and refugee, and creating a more compassionate world.
We invite you to join us in remembering Pope Francis and in recommitting to the values he embodied: mercy, humility, and love for all.
