Remembering Pope Francis' impact on Northeast Ohio and beyond
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Pope Francis waves from the Popemobile in 2013 in Brazil. Photo: Buda Mendes/Getty Images
Catholics around the globe are mourning the loss of Pope Francis, who died Easter Monday at the age of 88.
Why it matters: Francis' advocacy for progressive causes helped modernize the Catholic Church, which has more than 600,000 members in Northeast Ohio.
What they're saying: "It is with a heavy heart that I acknowledge the passing of Pope Francis, who has shepherded the Catholic Church for the past 12 years," Cleveland Bishop Edward C. Malesic said in a statement.
- "As the first pope from the Americas, Jorge Mario Bergoglio chose the name Francis in honor of St. Francis of Assisi, and like his namesake, he lived a humble, simple, and pious life, serving as an inspiration to the faithful around the world."
The big picture: Francis, elected pope in March 2013, pushed the Catholic Church to the left by advancing several progressive causes, including immigrant and LGBTQ+ rights, climate change and technology ethics.
- He also gave women more leadership roles in the church, including naming the first woman to head a major Vatican office.
Between the lines: Francis' views often clashed with the church's more traditional, conservative wing.
Zoom in: In 2023, Francis declared that Catholic clergy could bless individuals in "irregular situations," including those part of a same-sex couple.
- The Diocese of Cleveland acknowledged the declaration. However, it came three months after the diocese issued new rules restricting several elements of LGBTQ+ expression among its members.
Yes, but: Even those who disagreed with Francis expressed sadness over his passing. Vice President JD Vance, who clashed with the pope over immigration, posted condolences on X.
- "I just learned of the passing of Pope Francis," wrote Vance, who met briefly with the pope in Vatican City on Easter Sunday. "My heart goes out to the millions of Christians all over the world who loved him."