Bishop Barry C. Knestout led a Mass at noon today at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Richmond, honoring the memory of Pope Francis, who died away earlier this week at 88. The service gathered members of the local Catholic community to pray for the repose of the Holy Father’s soul, reflecting on his contributions to the Church and the world.

Pope Francis, who became the 266th pope of the Roman Catholic Church in 2013, was known for his emphasis on humility, social justice and outreach to marginalized communities. His death follows a period of declining health in recent months. His leadership was marked by efforts to promote interfaith dialogue, address climate change and extend mercy to the poor and vulnerable.

In a statement released  this morning, Knestout expressed his sorrow over Pope Francis’ death and reflected on the pontiff’s impact. "I mourn the passing of Pope Francis with great sadness and offer prayers to Our Lord for the happy repose of his soul," he wrote.

The bishop praised the pope for his unique style and his efforts to engage with the marginalized.

"Pope Francis’ charisms were his simple, conversational style, and his charitable efforts in reaching out to those on the peripheries – the poor, vulnerable, and alienated," he said. 

Knestout also reflected on his personal experiences with the Pope, recalling their encounters during a pilgrimage to Rome last October.

"During each of our encounters, the pope greeted me with a gentle, friendly smile, and just a few words in English: 'Pray for me!'" Bishop Knestout stated. “I assured him then of our prayers, and we continue to pray now for this devoted shepherd of the Church.”