It is with immense sadness and reverence that the European Council of Religious Leaders, part of the
Religions for Peace global family, mourns the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, the 266th Bishop
of Rome.

As an interfaith Council of religious leaders working for peace, we have been ceaselessly inspired by
Pope Francis’s unwavering commitment to interreligious dialogue, and his belief that dialogue and
cooperation between religions is not just desirable, but essential for building peace in the world. We
will never forget His Holiness’s monumental efforts to bring people of different faiths together,
travelling the world to bring the message of universal love and acceptance to people of all religious
traditions.

As a vigorous champion of the most oppressed and marginalised in our societies and communities,
Pope Francis frequently emphasised the vital link between peace and justice, and the inequalities
and injustices driven by poverty, conflict, and the environmental crisis. He was clear that religious
leaders and communities everywhere have a vital role to play in standing up to oppression,
countering extremism in all its forms, and speaking truth to power when needed. His compassion,
bravery, mercy, and sense of human fraternity inspired people across faith traditions and continents.
At this sad time the European Council of Religious Leaders offers its deepest condolences to the
Catholic Church and community. We offer thanks for Pope Francis’s tireless work for peace and
justice in the world, and in his memory and honour the ECRL will continue to be inspired by his life
and mission.

The European Council of Religious Leaders
22.04.2025.

 

Featured photo by Ashwin Vaswani on Unsplash