John - 

It was heartbreaking to wake up to this morning's news about Pope Francis's death at the age of 88. 

Beginning in 2013, when he stepped out onto those Vatican steps, Pope Francis inspired the Church, each of us as followers of Jesus, and the work of the Ignatian Solidarity Network.

Throughout his twelve-year pontificate, Pope Francis invited the Church to live a prophetic Gospel vision. Through his words and deeds, he challenged us all to defend and promote the inherent dignity of all God’s creation, both people and planet. 

You can read more about how Pope Francis has inspired ISN's work here. Below, please find a brief prayer of Thanksgiving for Pope Francis's life written by our staff. 

In the words of Pope Francis's Easter Vigil homily, read during the mass at Saint Peter's Basilica, "We are to reflect Easter in our lives and become messengers of hope, builders of hope, even as so many winds of death still buffet us." With these words in mind, amid our sadness at the loss of Pope Francis, let us find Easter hope in our own lives and in the work and mission of the Ignatian Solidarity Network.

Peace,

Christopher G. Kerr
Executive Director
A PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING
FOR THE LIFE OF POPE FRANCIS

Loving God, 
I am so grateful for 
the life of your holy servant, 
Pope Francis.

Through his witness, 
I have seen the presence 
of your love in all of creation,
both people and planet. 

Through his words, 
I have received your call
to be a person of love and compassion. 

Through his actions,
I have received your inspiration
to be a person of solidarity
willing to stand with those on the margins.

I thank you, Dear Lord, 
for the gift of Pope Francis. 

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

Amen
 



 
Ignatian Solidarity Network's mission is to educate and form advocates for social justice animated by the spirituality of St. Ignatius of Loyola and the witness of the Jesuit martyrs of El Salvador and their companions.

Learn more at: ignatiansolidarity.net

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