Dear Saint Anselm community,
It is with a heavy heart that I share the news of the passing of Pope Francis. He was 88 years old.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, Pope Francis had been the 266th pope of the Church since 2013. His papacy will be remembered for his advocacy on behalf of the poor and marginalized, his emphasis on mercy and forgiveness, and his support for interfaith dialogue.
He was a man of extraordinary courage and conviction who loved the Church and desired to lead the people of God on the path of compassion, healing, and love. The Saint Anselm community mourns his passing. We pray that the Holy Spirit will guide the Church especially at this inflection moment in history.
Please join me in praying for the soul of Pope Francis. And let us reflect on the impact of his teachings not only on those of the Catholic faith but also on the world as a whole.
Sincerely,
Joseph A. Favazza, Ph.D.
President