Bible Society Australia acknowledges with profound respect and sorrow the passing of Pope Francis, a man whose deep love for the Scriptures shaped his ministry and inspired millions across the world to encounter the living Word of God. His life reflected the humility, compassion, and courage of Christ himself, whom he faithfully followed.

“We know that Pope Francis was much loved and revered as someone who brought new life into the Church and into the Papacy,” says Simon Smart, Acting CEO of Bible Society Australia. “He was someone who was determined to bring the Church back to the teachings of Jesus with a real emphasis on virtues emanating from the Sermon on the Mount. His focus on justice for the poor and marginalised was appreciated by people around the world, as was his concern for the plight of refugees. Further to this his calls for care for the environment as part of God’s calling on humanity was timely, challenging and well received. He was a Pope who sought both through action and symbol to express humility and self-sacrifice that he saw as core to Christian faith.”

Pope Francis was a friend of Bible Societies around the world, affirming the vital mission of making the Bible accessible to all people. United Bible Societies’ Elaine Duncan, Chair of the Fellowship Council, shared, “On this sad day of Pope Francis’ death, I am thanking God for him, for his life and witness. Along with United Bible Societies’ colleagues, I had the privilege of meeting him two years ago… We came away from that visit appreciating his love for Christ, his commitment to the Bible, his humility, gentleness and grace.” Pope Francis supported the work of Bible Societies with generosity of spirit and genuine partnership. His appreciation for the mission of Bible translation, distribution, and engagement was unwavering.

As well as the partnership between Bible Society Australia and the Catholic Church in Australia, many Bible Societies around the world serve the Roman Catholic Church and Catholic communities, working closely with priests, bishops, religious educators, and lay leaders to ensure that the Scriptures are present, accessible, and alive in the hearts of the faithful. Pope Francis championed this mission, recognising that the word of God belongs to all and transforms all who encounter it.

We understand that this is a time of deep mourning for Catholics worldwide, marked by rituals and prayers that honour the life and legacy of Pope Francis. We stand with you in this period of grief and reflection, recognising the profound impact he had on the Catholic Church.