I join with countless others around the world in offering profound thanks to God for the life, ministry, and faithful witness of His servant, Pope Francis. It was a great shock to awaken this morning to the news of his death, having so recently seen him participating in the sacred observances of the Triduum. His steadfast devotion—visiting those in prison, greeting the faithful, and blessing the world in the last days of his life—stands as a shining testament to the love of Christ that animated his every act and word.

As a bishop of the Anglican Communion, I give particular thanks for the care and intentionality he brought to fostering the relationships between our Communion and the Catholic Church. His ministry of reconciliation and his gracious outreach have done much to draw our traditions closer together, and, by God’s grace, will continue to bear fruit in the days to come.

Today, I also join with the people of the State of Rhode Island in giving thanks for the long and distinguished public service of Senate President Dominick Ruggerio. His faithful devotion to the common good, even as he faced significant physical challenges, offers another moving example of a life poured out in service to others.

May the memory of Pope Francis and President Ruggerio be a blessing to all who mourn their passing, and may they, through the mighty power of our Lord Jesus Christ’s resurrection, be raised to the fullness of Easter life.+Nicholas

+Nicholas

XIII Bishop of Rhode Island
Providence

The Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church, the Most Rev. Sean Rowe has issued a statement on the passing of Pope Francis as well.