Baden-Württemberg mourns the demise of the Pope Francis
Pope Francis: A Pontiff of Humility, Mercy, and Environmental Stewardship
Pope Francis, the first pope from the Americas and the first Jesuit pope, passed away in 2025, leaving behind a legacy marked by humility, social justice, and environmental stewardship.
The news of his death sparked a wave of sorrow and reflection across the world, with bells tolling in many places as a mark of respect. In Germany, churches in the Archdiocese of Freiburg and beyond gathered for prayer, while a Pontifical Requiem was planned in Freiburg Cathedral.
During his twelve-year pontificate, Pope Francis redefined the papacy, setting strong accents that will be remembered for years to come. He chose to live modestly, residing in a guesthouse instead of the papal apartments, and demonstrated a humble lifestyle that influenced the tone and image of the Church.
Francis emphasized God's mercy, the importance of helping the poor, and making the Church a welcoming place for all people. His focus on compassion and inclusion shifted the Church's focus towards a more inclusive and accepting community.
One of his most significant contributions was his 2015 encyclical, Laudato si’, which linked environmental issues with social justice, urging care for the planet and addressing the climate crisis as a moral imperative. His commitment to preserving the environment was unforgettable, a cause that resonated with many, including CDU state leader Manuel Hagel.
Pope Francis was also a bridge-builder, working to build bridges between religions and nations. He helped restore diplomatic relations between Cuba and the United States, a testament to his diplomatic skills and commitment to peace.
Francis endeavoured to reform Vatican finances, increasing transparency, and addressing internal Church issues, including historic apologies to survivors of clergy sexual abuse. His pastoral leadership style was marked by a focus on service over power, leading by example, such as washing the feet of marginalized people regardless of religion.
Archbishop of Freiburg, Stephan Burger, expressed deep sorrow over the death of Pope Francis. Andreas Stoch, state and faction leader of the SPD, said that Pope Francis dedicated himself particularly to peace, justice, and solidarity. Bishop Heike Springhart of the Evangelical Church in Baden paid tribute to Pope Francis for his heartfelt friendliness towards people.
The Greens' faction leader, Andreas Schwarz, said that the world loses a personality who stood up for those who need help and protection with Pope Francis's death. Bishop Kläus Krämer of the Diocese of Rottenburg-Stuttgart also reacted with deep sorrow to the news of the death of Pope Francis.
Pope Francis's pontificate was one that caused friction, according to CDU state leader Manuel Hagel. However, he was also seen as a bridge-builder who opened the doors of the Catholic Church. Bishop Klaus Krämer of the Diocese of Rottenburg-Stuttgart remembered Pope Francis for his personal modesty and human approachability.
On the day of Pope Francis's burial, all churches and ecclesiastical buildings will be flown at half-mast or with a mourning band as a sign of respect for the extraordinary person who dedicated his life to the dignity of all people, peace, universal human rights, and human freedom. Hans-Ulrich Rülke, chairman of the FDP faction, viewed the world as having lost an extraordinary person with Pope Francis's death.
