news article
Passing of Pope Francis
April 21, 2025 / By UNY Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Editor's Note: The following message was sent to United Methodists of Upper New York on Monday, April 21, 2025 on behalf of Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez about the passing of Pope Francis.
Dear Siblings in Christ,
Grace and peace to you in the name of our Risen Lord, Jesus Christ.
It is with hearts heavy yet full of hope that we join our Roman Catholic siblings in mourning the passing of Pope Francis. The first Pope from the Americas, specifically Argentina, he was a faithful servant of Jesus Christ and a tireless advocate for justice, mercy, and love. Pope Francis, known as the “People’s Pope”, leaves behind a legacy of reform, humility, and outreach to marginalized communities.
Pope Francis’ unwavering commitment to the Gospel and his courageous leadership in addressing the world’s pressing challenges echoed the prophetic words of Micah 6:8: “What does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?”
In this time of loss, let us lean into the promise of resurrection, trusting in the hope that in Christ, death is not the end but the threshold to eternal life. May we, as his followers, continue to reflect the light of Christ and bear the fruits of love and grace in our own lives.
In Christ’s Abundant Love,
Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez
The United Methodist Church
Serving the Susquehanna and Upper New York Episcopal Area