EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — Here is what leaders and organizations in the El Paso area are saying about the death of Pope Francis, who age was 88.
The pope was the first one from Latin America. He charmed the word with his humble personality and concern for the poor but also drew the ire of political conservatives for his views on immigration and climate change.
He visited Juarez in 2016, drawing huge crowds.
Here are what they are saying about his death:
El Paso Diocese
“It is with Faith in the Risen Lord Jesus that we mourn the loss of The Holy Father Pope Francis. The Diocese of El Paso joins the universal Church, and indeed the entire world, in mourning. We give thanks for his life of humble service, his tireless advocacy for the poor, the immigrant and the marginalized, and his unwavering witness to the mercy of God. A friend to the Borderland of El Paso and Cd. Juarez during his life and service as Pope, the Holy Father was always united in prayer with the people of West Texas. Concédele, Señor, el descanso eterno. Y brille para él la luz perpetua.”
New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham
“Today, Manny and I join the people of New Mexico and the global community in mourning the loss of Pope Francis, who passed away this morning at the age of 88.
“Pope Francis embodied values that resonate deeply with New Mexicans – compassion for the marginalized, dignity for the forgotten, and grace extended to all. Throughout his papacy, Pope Francis called for ‘a humble, more merciful and inclusive church’ that would reach out to the peripheries of society. His ministry touched countless lives, including many in New Mexico where his message of inclusion resonated across our diverse communities.
“I invite all New Mexicans, regardless of faith tradition, to reflect on Pope Francis’s legacy of compassion and to answer his call to build a more just, more merciful world.
“Flags will be flown at half-staff throughout New Mexico until sunset on the day of the pope’s interment as we honor the life and legacy of Pope Francis.”
Estrella del Paso, which provides legal services to migrants
“It is with deep sorrow and reverence that we at Estrella del Paso mourn the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. Pope Francis leaves behind a profound legacy of compassion, humility, and advocacy for the marginalized.
“Throughout his papacy, Pope Francis championed the rights of migrants and refugees, emphasizing human dignity and compassion in the face of immigration challenges. He argued that immigration laws should prioritize human dignity over enforcement measures.
“As we grieve this tremendous loss, we also recommit ourselves to the vision he so powerfully championed. In honoring his legacy, we will continue to advocate, serve, and uplift immigrant communities with the same tenderness and courage that Pope Francis embodied.
“As we honor Pope Francis’s memory, let us reaffirm our commitment to supporting immigrants and upholding the values of justice, solidarity, and compassion that he so fervently promoted.
“May he rest in eternal peace, and may his spirit guide us as we carry forward the Gospel call to welcome the stranger.”
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