“It is with profound sadness that we have learned of the passing of our Holy Father, Pope Francis, on this April 21, 2025. Trusting in the infinite mercy of God, we commend his soul to the loving embrace of our Heavenly Father, praying that he be granted eternal rest.
As one who was blessed to be appointed Bishop of Saginaw by Pope Francis in 2019, and who personally met him later that year, I was moved by his presence, his humility, and his openness. His candor to the many questions raised by my brother bishops left a lasting impression upon me.
Pope Francis dedicated his papacy to lifting up the poor, the marginalized, and those living on the peripheries of society. His life was a profound witness to the Gospel call of mercy, humility, and compassion. His actions, especially in moments like the Holy Thursday foot-washing of migrants and prisoners, embodied his call for a Church that is merciful, inclusive, and attentive to those most often forgotten.
Throughout his ministry, Pope Francis consistently reminded us of the joy of the Gospel, the importance of care for creation, and the dignity of every human person. His leadership challenged us to build bridges, not walls; to seek peace, not division; and to be a Church that journeys with the wounded and the weary.
We give thanks to God for the life and witness of Pope Francis, a humble servant of the Lord and of His people.
Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace.”
Most Rev. Bishop Robert D. Gruss, Bishop of Saginaw
A Mass of Suffrage will take place at 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 23 at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption in Saginaw. The Suffrage Mass is a particular type of Votive Mass in which one or more Catholic baptized believers ask the celebrating priest to offer a Mass to God in favor of the salvation of one or more souls temporarily living in Purgatory.
Our resource page will have more information and details as they become available. We also are asking parishes within our 11-county Diocese to also have a Mass of Suffrage within the church's nine days of mourning.
Questions: Contact John Gonzalez, Communications Director, Diocese of Saginaw; 989-797-6630; jgonzalez@diosag.org