It is with profound sadness that I have received the news of the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. On behalf of the Anglican Church in North America, I extend our deepest condolences to our Roman Catholic brothers and sisters throughout the world during this time of mourning and transition.

Pope Francis’s leadership was marked by his heart for the poor, his commitment to interreligious dialogue, and his unwavering call for us all to be better stewards of God’s creation.

Through his humble service, he reminded Christians of all traditions of our common call to bring Christ’s compassion to a broken world.

I call upon all Anglicans throughout North America to join me in prayer for the worldwide Catholic Church during this Eastertide. Let us pray that God will comfort the faithful with the assurance of the resurrection and the hope we all share in our risen Saviour Jesus Christ.

Additionally, I invite all Anglicans to join with me in prayer for the College of Cardinals as they enter into conclave to elect a new Pope. May the Holy Spirit guide them with wisdom and discernment as they choose the next successor to the Chair of St. Peter.

Though differences in doctrine remain between our two communions, we stand alongside our Roman Catholic friends as fellow pilgrims on the journey of faith, united in our common baptism and our shared belief in the risen Lord.

In this Easter season, we are reminded that even in death, we proclaim the victory of Christ over the grave: “Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting? Thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Corinthians 15.55, 57)

May the soul of Pope Francis, and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

The Most Reverend Steve Wood, Archbishop and Primate