‘A Beacon of Hope’: Leaders React to the Death of Pope Francis

In his 12 years as pontiff, Pope Francis forged a legacy of compassion, humanity, and joy. 

The pope’s concern for social justice was on the mind of many mourning his death. From climate change to global poverty, war and violence, LGBTQ+ people and women’s roles in the church, Francis was remembered not just for his teachings or leadership on hot-button topics, but also the Argentine’s pastoral approach to the people caught up in them. 

Below are statements from various leaders who expressed their sorrow and mourning at the pope’s passing. 

This is an ongoing story and may be updated. 

Christopher Kerr, executive director of the Ignatian Solidarity Network: 

“Pope Francis inspired a new generation of Catholics to act for justice—to stand with migrants, advocate for human rights and economic justice, and confront the climate crisis with urgency and faith. Rooted in discernment and accompaniment, his Jesuit formation shaped a papacy that truly embodied the mission of a Church engaged in the world. We mourn his loss deeply, but we also recommit ourselves to carrying forward his legacy—with courage, compassion, and a tireless pursuit of justice.”

Kate McElwee, executive director of the Women’s Ordination Conference:

“His commitment to dialogue emboldened a deep discernment on the role of women within church structures. Francis made significant appointments of women to top positions at the Vatican in roles previously reserved for men. And during his pontificate, we witnessed women voting at the Vatican for the very first time. These cultural and practical shifts toward the inclusion of women cannot be understated.

While we will continue to experience the gifts of Pope Francis’ openness to reform, we lament that this did not extend to an openness to the possibility of women in ordained ministry. His repeated ‘closed door’ policy on women’s ordination was painfully incongruous with his otherwise pastoral nature, and for many, a betrayal of the synodal, listening church he championed. This made him a complicated, frustrating, and sometimes heart-breaking figure for many women.”

Joan F. Neal, interim executive director of NETWORK: 

“Whether from poverty, racism, LGBTQ+ discrimination, forced migration, or the destruction of our common home, he worked tirelessly for a ‘culture of care’ for all, without exception. Pope Francis had a profound impact on the Catholic Church, and we pray that his legacy continues to transform the church and the entire world. 

We are grateful for his affirmation of Catholic Sisters and for elevating the role of women in the church over the past 12 years. Moreover, his advocacy—on behalf of the environment, immigration, inclusion, and so many other issues—encouraged us in our political ministry to build up the common good through just and equitable federal policy.”

Fr. James Martin, founder of Outreach:

“Pope Francis did more for LGBTQ people than all his predecessors combined … perhaps because of his experience with LGBTQ people as Archbishop of Buenos Aires, perhaps because more people had been coming out over the last 10 years, or perhaps because he was, at heart, a pastor who wanted to reach out to 'todos, todos, todos,' Francis revolutionized the church’s approach to LGBTQ people.”

Cardinal Timothy Dolan, Catholic archbishop of New York: 

“How appropriate that his last public appearance was on Easter Sunday as we celebrated the joy of the resurrection of Jesus whom Pope Francis loved so deeply and so well, and right after our Jewish brothers and sisters, for whom Pope Francis had such great love, concluded their celebration of Passover.

I was honored to participate in the conclave that elected Pope Francis in 2013, and to have welcomed him here to New York in 2015.  He touched us all with his simplicity, with his heart of a humble servant.  Trusting in the tender and infinite mercy of Jesus, we pray that he is, even now, enjoying his eternal reward in heaven.”

Anne Barrett Doyle, co-director, BishopAccountability.org:

“Pope Francis was a beacon of hope to many of the world’s most desperate and marginalized people. But what we most needed from this pope was justice for the Church’s own wounded, the children and adults sexually abused by Catholic clergy. In this realm, where Francis had supreme power, he refused to make the necessary changes. This choice is having devastating consequences for the Church’s most powerless members. It will forever tarnish the legacy of this remarkable man.” 

Christopher Wimbush, interim president of Catholics for Choice: 

“Pope Francis was by no means a perfect pope — and he would be the first to admit that. On issues of gender and sexuality, Pope Francis still fell short, failing to engage the various nuances and complexities of both in the way that a 21st-century pope must. We empathize with Catholics who feel conflicted about Pope Francis’ passing, particularly given his remarks about female theologians, the transgender community, and people who have had abortions … The legacy of Pope Francis is a complicated one, but we remain grateful for all that he taught and the example he set for the world. He was undoubtedly an agent of peace.” 

Rev. Sean Rowe, presiding bishop of the Episcopal Church:

“Throughout his life and ministry, he has been a witness for the Gospel and a champion for the poor and marginalized. Especially in this season, I give thanks for his powerful advocacy on behalf of migrants and refugees … In 12 years as the Roman Catholic pontiff, Pope Francis transformed our theology of the environment and recognized the need for LGBTQ+ people to feel heard, seen, and included in their church. We are likewise grateful for his emphasis on reconciliation and ecumenical dialogue, in which our church has participated through the Anglican-Roman Catholic Theological Consultation in the United States of America.” 

Former President Joe Biden wrote on X: 

“For decades, he served the most vulnerable across Argentina and his mission of serving the poor never ceased. As Pope, he was a loving pastor and challenging teacher who reached out to different faiths. He commanded us to fight for peace and protect our planet from a climate crisis. He advocated for the voiceless and powerless. He made all feel welcome and seen by the Church. He promoted equity and an end to poverty and suffering across the globe. And above all, he was a Pope for everyone.”

Rev. Sofía Betancourt, president of the Unitarian Universalist Association:

“A transformative leader, the first Pope from Latin America, and the first Pope from Argentina, his moral clarity and justice-centered ministry, including his work elevating climate justice and highlighting the dignity and humanity of migrant families, were significant to all people of good will. As importantly, he will be remembered for his gracious humility and his willingness to demonstrate his own frailties to a world that is often uncharitable to those made vulnerable.”