IUOE Local 793 joins the world in mourning the passing of Pope Francis. His death marks a sad and significant loss, not only for the Catholic Church but for people of all faiths and backgrounds.
A humble Argentine Jesuit who lived a vow of poverty, he became the first pope in more than a century from outside Europe, and the first from the Americas.
Pope Francis consistently stood with the poor, the marginalized, and the forgotten. His historic visit to Canada in 2022, where he apologized to First Nations peoples for the Church’s role in colonialism and the abuses of the residential school system, was a courageous step toward reconciliation and healing.
He was also deeply committed to protecting our planet. In his 2015 encyclical Laudato Si’, he called for urgent action on climate change and environmental stewardship, framing care for the Earth as a moral and spiritual imperative.
Pope Francis will also be remembered for his inclusive stance toward LGBTQ people. In 2013, he famously said, “If someone is gay and he searches for the Lord and has good will, who am I to judge?” A decade later, he reaffirmed his support by stating that “being homosexual isn’t a crime,” and condemned laws that criminalize LGBTQ individuals as “unjust.”
Pope Francis was a progressive voice of unity and mercy in a time of division. He leaves behind a legacy of justice, humility, and hope.
On behalf of Local 793, we extend our heartfelt condolences to all those mourning this loss around the world. May his example continue to inspire leaders and citizens alike to walk the path of service, peace, and solidarity.