Diocese of Tyler, Texas

Message from Bishop Kelly on the Death of Pope Francis

 

It is with great sorrow that I learned early this morning of the passing of our Holy Father, Pope Francis. I have been impressed and inspired by Pope Francis’ work, mission, and ministry in the Church, particularly for his attention to the dignity of immigrants and of those on the margins. By his words and deeds, Pope Francis proclaimed God’s mercy to the world and called us to be a Church of compassion and encounter. I am also grateful to him for the appointment to serve as your bishop here in the Diocese of Tyler.

 

Having just celebrated the solemnity of the Lord’s Resurrection on Easter, we commend the Holy Father into the arms of the Risen Lord whom he served so faithfully during his life and during his papal ministry. Even though there is grief at his passing, this is also a time to express our trust in the Lord and his promise of eternal life and the resurrection of the body for those who love him. I ask that you join me in praying for the repose of his soul and for the Church in this time. 

 

I invite you to join me for the celebration of a memorial Mass for Pope Francis at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, April 22 at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Tyler.

 

+Gregory Kelly

Bishop of Tyler