Archbishop Thomas Rodi of Mobile released a statement this morning reacting to the death of Pope Francis today at 88.

“With sadness and a profound sense of loss, we learned today of the death of Pope Francis,” Rodi wrote. “He was a remarkable leader who devoted his life to service of God and neighbor. He was constant in urging the nations of the world to strive for peace. He was a man of humility and compassion who was tireless in his concern for the weak, the poor, and the forgotten. Even after 38 days in the hospital, and being advised by his doctors to rest and avoid crowds, Pope Francis spent Holy Thursday visiting inmates at Rome’s prison. He truly had a pastoral heart and encouraged the Church to go out to those who felt neglected and to bring the love of God to them.”

Rodi noted the poignancy of the pope’s death a day after he celebrated the Resurrection of Jesus in his last public act.

“Yesterday, on Easter Sunday, we celebrated the Lord’s triumph over death,” Rodi said. “We believe the Lord is risen. It is fitting that the Lord has called Pope Francis to Himself on this first day of the Easter season. With faith in the Lord’s promise of eternal life, we entrust our Holy Father to the love and mercy of God. May the Lord welcome Pope Francis home with those words found in the Bible: “Well done, good and faithful servant.” (Matthew 25:23)