It is with deep sorrow that we at Catholic Relief Services extend our heartfelt condolences on the passing of His Holiness, Pope Francis. If there was ever an “artisan of peace,” it was Pope Francis. His unwavering commitment to compassion, justice and the dignity of every human being has left an indelible mark on the world.

In this time of mourning, we join the global Catholic community in prayer and reflection, honoring the legacy of a remarkable man who led with humility and love.

“Love for the poor has been the sign, the light that draws people to give glory to the Father.”

—Pope Francis, 1936-2025

Photo by Benhur Arcayan/Malacañang Photo Bureau

Pope Francis' love for the poor was evident in his actions and words, which align with the values of CRS. His leadership and advocacy for people in need has been a guiding light for the Catholic community. His dedication to social justice, environmental stewardship and interfaith dialogue has inspired us all to strive for a more just and compassionate world. 

His encyclicals—Laudato Si', which calls us to care for our common home and emphasizes the urgent need for environmental stewardship, and Fratelli Tutti, which inspires us to foster fraternity and social friendship and urges us to build a world where all people are treated with dignity and respect—reflect his legacy.

As we bid farewell to Pope Francis, we extend our deepest gratitude for his remarkable contributions and the profound impact he had on our mission. In 2014, he featured a photo of a CRS program on Twitter, signaling a new era of engagement. During his visit to the United States in 2015, he highlighted CRS' commitment to serving vulnerable people. Last year, he blessed our Go FAR celebration marking the end of our leadership giving campaign, encouraging us to continue strengthening families, building homes, championing young people and transforming livelihoods.

I think of his visit to Iraq in 2021, where CRS supported programs that helped families rebuild after the war. I remember his profound homily in the cathedral in Baghdad: “Love, which is the heart of the Beatitudes, even if it seems weak in the world’s eyes, in fact always triumphs.”

Most recently, he wrote a letter from the hospital, celebrating CRS Rice Bowl's 50th anniversary, calling it "an example of how to fulfill the Gospel's command to love and serve our neighbor in a communal way."

CRS is committed to continuing our efforts in the spirit of his teachings, working tirelessly to bring this love and compassion to our sisters and brothers around the world. His legacy will continue to guide and motivate us in our work.

We pray for the repose of Pope Francis’ soul and that he is welcomed into the loving arms of the Lord God. May his soul, and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

—Sean L. Callahan, President & CEO Catholic Relief Services

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