University of Detroit Mercy President Donald B. Taylor and Fr. Charles Oduke, vice president of Mission Integration, join with leaders throughout the world in mourning the passing of Pope Francis at age 88.
“On behalf of our entire UDM family and all who felt a deep bond to Pope Francis’ ministry and enduring faith, we are saddened at his passing but thankful for his spiritual guidance, prophetic leadership, vulnerability and willingness to challenge everyone to love and respect the God-given dignity of people everywhere,” Taylor said. “More importantly, Pope Francis lifted the veil of indifference to the suffering of others and provided a transcendent example of what it means to be agents of faith, hope and love in our world today.”
In speaking about the legacy of Pope Francis, Fr. Oduke said that “The values of the Mission of UDM as a ministry of both the sisters of Mercy and Jesuits are deeply steeped in Catholic Intellectual Tradition and Catholic Social Thought as interpreted through the teaching and example of Pope Francis.
“Today, we kindly ask our entire UDM family to keep Pope Francis in your prayers and to celebrate his exemplary leadership and ministry with everyone in the world today.”
On Thursday, April 24, there will be a special liturgy to pray for Pope Francis’ repose and to honor his legacy. This liturgy is in the McNichols Campus St. Ignatius Chapel at 12:45 p.m. We hope to see you there.
May perpetual light shine upon Pope Francis and may the souls of all the departed through God’s Mercy rest in Peace.