Death of Pope Francis, Press release from Monsignor Jean-Marc Micas

In the midst of the Jubilee Year of Hope, on this holy day of Easter, the second of the octave, we have learnt of the return of our Pope Francis to the Father.  I would like to convey the emotion, gratitude, and prayers of the entire Catholic faithful in the diocese of Tarbes and Lourdes.

Emotion, since death, which we must all experience eventually, separates us from the sight and physical proximity of the people we care about.  God dislikes a death that causes us sorrow.  Francis was certainly much more than just a father figure to Catholics.  We are saddened by his death.

Gratitude because he accepted the Cardinals’ faith in him, inspired by God, to succeed the Apostle Peter. Thanksgiving because he was the right Pope at the right time, just like his predecessors.  Sincere gratitude for his free, gospel-centred ministry that detested worldliness and political compromise.  We are grateful for his teachings, the Church’s necessary reforms, and his brave choices.  I would like to express my personal gratitude for the confidence he placed in me by appointing me Bishop of Tarbes and Lourdes and for the warmth we experienced during our meetings. The Pope was a great admirer of Lourdes and used the water in the Grotto every day with faith and fervour.

Prayer, finally, that God will show him compassion, and welcome him into His heart. Prayer, too, for the person who will succeed him. A prayer for the Church renewed in this Easter season, a prayer of hope for life that is stronger than death, for the joy of the Gospel that always triumphs.

The Lord watches over his Church and the mission he entrusts to her. Christ is risen; he is risen indeed! Alleluia!