Louisiana leaders offer condolences in remembrance of Pope Francis

NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — Louisiana officials are expressing condolences following the recent death of Pope Francis.

He served for 12 years as the 266th Pope of the Catholic Church becoming history’s first Latin American pontiff.

New Orleans’ Archbishop Gregory Aymond released a statement Monday morning, April 21.

The pope made his final appearance Easter day on April 20 to conduct mass delivering the message on the resurrection of Jesus Christ. His death comes in the weeks of his recovery following a battle with pneumonia.

It is with great sadness that we share the news of Pope Francis’ death. While we are sad as we will miss him in this world, as an Easter people we believe in the Resurrection and believe that Pope Francis has gone home to our Father and now shares in the life of the risen Christ.

Pope Francis was a true man of God who called and challenged all of us to witness our faith in all aspects of our daily life. His ministry stretched beyond the normal boundaries into the peripheries of those who have felt marginalized by our society.

He said God’s name is mercy and witnessed for us how to live with love and mercy.

He will always be remembered for his love, compassion, humility, and care for all of God’s creation.

Eternal rest grant unto Pope Francis, O Lord,
and let perpetual light shine upon him.
May the souls of all the faithful departed,
through the mercy of God, rest in peace.
~Amen~
Archbishop Aymond

Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry posted to social media:

“Rest in Peace Pope Francis. Sharon and I join Christians around the world in praying for him and the Church during this time.”

Other state leaders have also expressed their condolences, including Congressman Troy Carter.

It is with a heavy heart that I join the global community in mourning the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. A shepherd to billions, a voice for the voiceless, and a living example of Christ’s love in action, Pope Francis led with humility, compassion, and unwavering moral clarity.

That he should leave us just after Resurrection Sunday is deeply symbolic—a final act of grace from a life lived in complete service to others. From the slums of Buenos Aires to the grandeur of the Vatican, his path was marked not by privilege, but by profound empathy and devotion to the dignity of all people.

As a U.S. Congressman representing Louisiana—a state steeped in Catholic tradition—I have seen firsthand the depth of love and respect our community holds for this extraordinary Pontiff. He challenged us to care more, to judge less, and to walk humbly with our God. He reminded the powerful of their duty to the poor, the marginalized, and the forgotten.

We will miss him terribly. But we are forever grateful for the example he gave us, the healing he brought to the world, and the enduring call he issued for justice, mercy, and peace.

May his memory be eternal.

May his soul rest in the peace of Christ.
Congressman Troy Carter

“Pope Francis taught that the face of God is mercy. He preached Christ’s mercy through his care for the poor, marginalized, and unwanted, not only through his words. My thoughts are with the Catholic church and Catholic faithful today,” said Senator Bill Cassidy.

Both Congresswoman Julia Letlow and United States Representative Garret Graves shared photos of their visits with Pope Francis.

“Saddened to hear of the passing of Pope Francis. It was an honor to spend a few moments with him in 2023 while visiting the Vatican. I held great respect for the faith and humility he exhibited in his daily walk. May he rest in eternal peace,” said Letlow.

“Mourning the loss of Pope Francis. Had a chance to visit with him at the Vatican. It was awing to be inside this incredible building and meeting with the Holy Father. But something happened at the end that was interesting,” said Graves.

“Pope Francis left a powerful mark on the world—one that continues to inspire people of all faiths. His life reminds us of the impact true servant leadership can have, not just in the Church, but in our daily lives and communities. As we grieve his passing, we also reflect on his example and the values he lived by. My thoughts and prayers are with all who are feeling this loss—especially the Catholic community here in Louisiana and around the globe,” said Representative Delisha Boyd.

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