Montgomery County leaders are mourning the death of Pope Francis, remembering him as a global humanitarian and spiritual leader whose message of compassion resonated far beyond the Catholic Church.
County Executive Marc Elrich extended condolences to the Catholic community in Montgomery County and around the world. “Catholics make up one of the largest Christian denominations in our County, and I know this loss will be deeply felt by many,” Elrich said in a statement. He praised the Pope’s legacy of humility, justice, and his willingness to engage with marginalized communities, including the LGBTQ+ community.
“Pope Francis may have been the leader of the global Catholic Church, but his life and legacy is an inspiration to many other Christian denominations as well as other religious communities,” Elrich said. “His death is a loss for the world, and I hope his legacy continues to inspire acts of kindness, empathy and justice in all of us.”
Councilmember Laurie-Anne Sayles reflected on the Pope’s commitment to social justice. She wrote on X, “He uplifted the voiceless, and fought for justice, peace, and our planet. May we all learn from his legacy”
Councilmember Will Jawando called him “a transformative leader committed to social justice.” In a post on X, he added, “He championed compassion, inclusivity, and human rights. His legacy of empathy and reform will inspire generations.”
Maryland Gov. Wes Moore also honored the late Pope, saying “he led with humility, compassion, and love for all people. I will be forever grateful for his spiritual leadership and the legacy he leaves behind.,” in a post on X.
As a mark of respect, the United States and Maryland flags are flying at half-staff until sunset on the day of the Pope’s funeral.
The Vatican will hold funeral services on Saturday, April 26, at 10 a.m. local time in St. Peter’s Square. Officials will place Pope Francis’s body in state at St. Peter’s Basilica beginning Wednesday, April 23. Per his wishes, church leaders will bury him at the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome.
Related:
MCM reported on Pope Frances’ visit to D.C. in 2015.
