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What local leaders are saying about the death of Pope Francis
“Pope Francis changed hearts, opened minds, and inspired action. His legacy will endure.”
Massachusetts leaders are among those reacting on Monday to the death of Pope Francis, recognizing the pontiff for his leadership and commitment to service.
Francis died Monday at the age of 88, a day after he blessed thousands of people in St. Peter’s Square on Easter Sunday.
Boston Mayor Michelle Wu said in a statement following news of his death that the city was honoring the “extraordinary life and enduring legacy of His Holiness Pope Francis” on Monday.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the global Catholic community and to all who were moved by his life of profound faith and purpose,” Wu said. “Pope Francis changed hearts, opened minds, and inspired action. His legacy will endure.”
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Below, see how other local leaders are responding to the pontiff’s death:
Richard Henning, archbishop of the Archdiocese of Boston: ‘He has challenged us to turn away from selfish impulses and towards communion with others and respect for God’s creation’
Cardinal Sean O’Malley, former archbishop for the Boston archdiocese: ‘Pope Francis was a sign and source of hope for people throughout the world particularly the forgotten, the poor, the sick and the voiceless.’
Gov. Maura Healey: ‘His life was a commitment to our sacred responsibility to care for others, especially the most vulnerable among us.’
Boston Mayor Michelle Wu: ‘Pope Francis reminded us that caring for our planet is a sacred duty, and that true leadership is rooted in humility, compassion, and service.’
Sen. Ed Markey: ‘I join the world in mourning the loss of Pope Francis, the people’s Pope, who reminded us that no matter our faith, we are all caretakers of creation.’
Sen. Elizabeth Warren: ‘Pope Francis was a force for good.’
Rep. Richard Neal: ‘Over the last twelve years, Pope Francis has become one of the most consequential leaders of our time, serving as a Pope for all people.’
Rep. Jim McGovern: ‘His Holiness led with courage and compassion—and he understood that faith is about more than words, it’s about action.’
Rep. Lori Trahan: ‘A transformational leader whose humility, compassion, and moral clarity touched the lives of so many.’
Rep. Ayanna Pressley: ‘He practiced his faith in word and deed until the very end.’
Rep. Bill Keating: ‘Pope Francis – through his deeds, not merely his words – was to Catholics and non-Catholics alike a humble yet blinding beacon of love and humanity.’
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