On the passing of Pope Francis

A Message from Rev. Brian J. Shanley, O.P.

St. John’s University joins the whole Church in mourning the death of Pope Francis. Pope Francis, the first to take the name of the 13th-century saint, served his 12-year papacy with the humility, mercy, and joy of his namesake.

The first pontiff from Latin America, Pope Francis sought to reframe the Church as a “field hospital” offering comfort and mercy to those at the margins of society. In the footsteps of Jesus, Francis focused his ministry on the poor, the sick, the hungry, the homeless, prisoners, migrants, and the victims of war and violence. Pope Francis urged those with more to help those with less. He brought new emphasis to the intersection of social justice with environmental stewardship. He tried to renew the Church through a synodal process emphasizing dialogue and discernment.

As Pope Francis aged, he bore witness through his suffering to a profound trust in God. It is fitting that he passes through death to his eternal reward as the Church begins celebrating the Easter season. May he rest in peace and may God bless the Church as it discerns his successor as the Vicar of Christ.

The University will offer Mass for Pope Francis at 12:15 p.m. this Wednesday, April 23, 2025, in St. Thomas More Church at the Queens, NY campus. All are welcome.