“Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” – Matthew 5:4
The Catholic Church of Jamaica joins with the global Catholic community in mourning the passing of Pope Francis, the 266th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church, who entered eternal rest earlier today in the Vatican.
With deep sorrow and reverent reflection, we remember the life, leadership, and legacy of a Holy Father who broke barriers, built bridges, and embodied the mercy of Christ in every corner of the world.
Pope Francis—born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina—was elected to the papacy in 2013. He was the first pope from the Americas, the first Jesuit pope, and the first to take the name Francis, inspired by Saint Francis of Assisi, the champion of the poor and the humble.
Over his papacy, Pope Francis emphasized compassion, simplicity, ecological stewardship, and a Church that goes out to the margins. He reminded us constantly to be a “field hospital” for the wounded and to bring Christ’s love to the forgotten.
Here in Jamaica, his teachings resonated deeply with our own journey as a people of faith, culture, and hope. His call for a Church that listens, welcomes, and serves echoed through our parishes, schools, and missions.
Archbishop Kenneth Richards, Archbishop of Kingston, shared these words in response to the news:
“The heart of the Church in Jamaica is heavy today. Pope Francis was a spiritual father to all of us—always pointing to Jesus, always close to the people. We give thanks for his life, and we entrust him to the arms of our Heavenly Father.”
As the bells toll across our island, let us come together in prayerful unity. Special memorial Masses will be held across the Archdiocese of Kingston, the Diocese of Montego Bay, and the Diocese of Mandeville. A full schedule of these services will be released shortly.
In this time of mourning, we remember the words Pope Francis once offered to the faithful:
“Let us pray for one another. Let us pray for the whole world, that there may be a great spirit of fraternity.”
May his soul, and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.