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"A shepherd of grace and compassion"

Uniting Church President Rev Charissa Suli extends the deepest condolences of the Uniting Church in Australia to the Catholic Church upon the passing of Pope Francis, and pays tribute to the spiritual leader

April 21, 2025

A Statement on the Passing of Pope Francis

Rev Charissa Suli, President of the Uniting Church in Australia

With deep sorrow, we mourn the passing of Pope Francis, a shepherd of grace and compassion, earlier today at the age of 88.

On behalf of the Uniting Church in Australia, I extend my deepest condolences to our Catholic sisters and brothers, and all who grieve this profound loss. We join with people of faith around the world in giving thanks for his extraordinary witness, moral courage and lifelong commitment to the Gospel.

Pope Francis was a beacon of humility and compassion. From the moment he chose the name Francis, inspired by the saint known for his love of the poor and care for creation, he embodied the Gospel message in word and deed. A Jesuit priest who took seriously his vow of poverty, his papacy was marked not by the trappings of power but by the simplicity and grace of servant leadership.

"His papacy was marked not by the trappings of power but by the simplicity and grace of servant leadership."

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He reminded us again and again that God's mercy knows no bounds. Whether embracing those on the margins, advocating for migrants and refugees, washing the feet of prisoners or speaking tenderly to those wounded by injustice, Pope Francis proclaimed a love that heals and restores. His call to "be a church of the poor and for the poor" echoed Christ’s own mission and challenged us all to live with greater generosity and compassion.

Pope Francis also gave voice to creation's cry, urging the world to see environmental care as a sacred responsibility. His encyclical Laudato Si' was not only a theological reflection but a passionate plea for justice—for the earth and for the most vulnerable communities suffering the effects of climate change. He reminded us that caring for our common home is an act of faith, hope, and love.

Pope Francis sought to face the deep pain and betrayal caused by the scourge of child sexual abuse within the church. While acknowledging the church’s serious failures, he called for accountability, particularly by seeking an end to the culture of secrecy which has long contributed to the concealment of abuse. His efforts to listen to survivors with humility reflected his commitment to healing, however incomplete the journey remains.

Pope Francis spoke truth with both courage and kindness. He was not afraid to challenge the world’s indifference or to call the church itself to greater integrity and compassion. In his life and ministry, we glimpsed the heart of Christ.

As we grieve, we also give thanks for Pope Francis’ extraordinary witness and we commit ourselves to walking the path he illuminated - one of mercy, justice and love for all creation.  His legacy will continue to inspire people of all faiths and none to embrace the call to peace, compassion, and justice. May the Spirit of comfort surround all who mourn, as we pray that he will be welcomed home by the boundless mercy of God he so faithfully proclaimed in life.

We now uphold the Catholic Church in the coming time of mourning, and as it prepares to begin its treasured process to elect a new spiritual leader.

With every blessing and in the peace of Christ,

Reverend Charissa Suli
President, Uniting Church in Australia

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