Tirelessly Advocated For The Poor: Diocese Of Trenton Mourns Pope Francis

Mercer County, NJ — Pope Francis, history’s first Latin American pontiff, died on Monday. He was 88.

Bishop David M. O'Connell of Trenton and the Diocese is mourning the death of the pontiff. In a message to the congregation, O'Connell highlighted how the Pope embodied the true essence of servant leadership.

“His papacy was characterized by a relentless pursuit of peace, dialogue and unity. He tirelessly advocated for the poor, for migrants and refugees, for the disenfranchised, reminding us all of our shared humanity reminding us all of our shared humanity and the Christian moral imperative to lift one another up,” O'Connell said.

“His teachings on environmental stewardship, encapsulated in his second encyclical Laudato Si’ (May 24, 2015), urged Catholics and all people of the world to “care for our common home” and to protect the earth for future generations.”

The Bishop of Rome charmed the world with his compassion for the poor and humble style. But he did alienate conservatives across the globe with his critiques on capitalism and climate change.

“Pope Francis was not without his critics, even some high-profile members of the hierarchy. He was often labeled in various Catholic Church circles as “progressive.” His unconventional style, especially when making unscripted or “off the cuff” remarks to members to the media, led some people to call him “confusing.” Similarly, his custom of greeting and welcoming people of all beliefs, including those who openly disagreed with Catholic Church teachings, raised similar wonderment at times,” O'Connell said.

“And yet, Pope Francis was never afraid to speak the truth of the Gospel, Church doctrine and tradition with firmness, conviction and adherence to their principles. That needs to be acknowledged.”

In memory of Pope Francis, O'Connell called on members of the diocese to honor his memory by creating a world where “compassion, mercy and justice prevail, where the dignity of every person is upheld, and where the light of hope shines brightly for all.”

Bishop O’Connell will gather on Monday with the clergy, religious, and faithful for a special Mass to commemorate the death of Pope Francis.

The Mass will take place in St. Mary of the Assumption Cathedral in Trenton beginning at 12:10 p.m.

St. Mary Cathedral is located at 151 N. Warren Street, Trenton. The Mass will also be livestreamed at youtube.com/trentondiocese.

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