Bishop Fisher calls Pope Francis ‘Servant of Servants’; asks for Holy Spirit’s guidance

With heavy hearts and profound gratitude, we commend to our loving and one true God the soul of Pope Francis, the good and faithful “Servant of Servants” who guided our Universal Church and the Catholic faithful these past 12 years. Pope Francis’ example of humility and simplicity, his constant call to seek peace, and his openness to all will forever remind us of our Lord Jesus Christ Himself, whom he mirrored in spirit and throughout his long and devoted life as a faithful layman, priest, bishop and pontiff.

In this, the Jubilee Year that the Holy Father inaugurated, may we honor Pope Francis and indeed be true ‘Pilgrims of Hope’ on our pilgrimage toward renewal and reconciliation. May we be constantly inspired by his pursuit of holiness, his warmth, humor, keen insights into the mysteries and traditions of our faith, and most especially, by his love for all without scorn and judgment.

We also humbly appeal to the Holy Spirit to now guide the cardinals of our Church as they prepare to select the successor to Pope Francis. May their only motive be to choose one among them who is possessed with great holiness, compassion, wisdom and courage, and best suited to now lead our Church forward in this complex and difficult age.

Eternal rest grant unto your servant Francis, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul, and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in eternal peace. 

April 21, 2025