Refugee Council USA Statement on the Passing of Pope Francis

Washington, DC- Refugee Council USA mourns the passing of Pope Francis, a tireless and compassionate advocate for migrants, refugees, and all those forced to flee their homes. Throughout his papacy, Pope Francis was a moral beacon, reminding the world of our shared responsibility to uphold the dignity and rights of every human being, regardless of their faith traditions, ethnicity, affluence, sexual preference, or origins.

Pope Francis consistently called on global leaders and communities to welcome the stranger and care for the vulnerable. In his own words:

“Thousands of persons are led to travel.. in search of a better life for themselves and for their loved ones, in search of greater opportunities. Is this not what we want for our own children? We must not be taken aback by their numbers, but rather view them as persons, seeing their faces and listening to their stories, trying to respond as best we can to their situation. To respond in a way which is always humane, just, and fraternal.”

His unwavering leadership to justice, compassion, and human dignity will continue to inspire our work and mission. In his final Easter Sermon, Pope Francis addressed the violence and dire humanitarian situations in places like Gaza and Ukraine, saying: “There can be no peace without freedom of religion, freedom of thought, freedom of expression and respect for the views of others.” At a time when refugee, asylum, and humanitarian protections are under increasing threat, his voice will be deeply missed — but his legacy will endure.

We offer our deepest condolences to the global Catholic community and to all those whose lives were touched by his example. May we honor his memory by continuing the work he championed: building a more just, compassionate, and welcoming world for all. 

Media contact: Mariam Sayeed, msayeed@rcusa.org

RCUSA is a diverse coalition advocating for just and humane laws and policies, and the promotion of dialogue and communication among government, civil society, and those who need protection and welcome. This statement does not necessarily reflect the views of each individual RCUSA member organization.

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