Ignite Peace Mourns the Death of Pope Francis

Ignite Peace mourns the loss of Pope Francis today. As an organization committed to the creation of a nonviolent society, we join with so many around the world who grieve the passing of a man who led with humility, compassion, and courage.

Pope Francis offers to us an example of solidarity as a leader who prioritized the marginalized, listened to those with perspectives that were different from his own, and protected and promoted the dignity of all people. In a recent letter to the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, he called on all people “of goodwill not to give in to narratives that discriminate against and cause unnecessary suffering to our migrant and refugee brothers and sisters,” and that “With charity and clarity we are all called to live in solidarity and fraternity, to build bridges that bring us ever closer together.” His calls to connection and community were joyful and unwavering.

We reflect on our gratitude for a global leader who demonstrated strength through compassion, and prayed for peace during his final public appearance on Easter Sunday, as he had so many times before. With resolve from his example, we pursue our work for dignity for immigrants and those enmeshed in our criminal legal system, for anti-racism, and for a nonviolent society.