JARO, ILOILO CITY — Archbishop Midyphil Billones of the Archdiocese of Jaro has released a heartfelt message following the death of Pope Francis, who passed away on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, due to a stroke and irreversible cardiocirculatory collapse.
In his statement, Archbishop Billones remembered the Holy Father’s 12-year pontificate as a time marked by humility, compassion, and a deep closeness to the people. He urged the faithful to offer prayers and masses for the eternal repose of Pope Francis, whose passing has left a profound impact on Catholics around the world.
“Pope Francis ended his earthly journey and ministry on Easter Monday, a day of hope and resurrection,” the Archbishop said. “We remember him in our prayers and mass intentions as we join the whole world in entrusting him to the care of the Risen Lord.”
Archbishop Billones reflected on the Pope’s legacy, highlighting how Francis “destroyed the distance” between the papacy and the people by embodying the role of a true shepherd. Quoting a passage from the Pope’s book Life, My Story through the Years, the Archbishop recalled how Francis once responded to criticism about his informal and approachable leadership: “Above all else I am a priest. I am a pastor; and a pastor must be among his people to talk to them, enter into dialogue, listen and support them, watch over them.”
“Indeed, in life, this is his legacy,” Archbishop Billones said. “He bridged the gap between the Church and its people with love, tenderness, and compassion.”
He praised the Pope’s commitment to the poor, the environment, and those on the margins of society. “God, through Pope Francis, kissed the feet of prisoners, cried with victims of abuse, opened his heart to migrants, and walked closely with wounded believers,” he said.
The Archbishop emphasized that synodality — the idea of a Church that walks together — was not just a program for Pope Francis but a way of life. Even in death, the Pope chose simplicity, opting for a modest burial to remain close to the poor.
“We mourn his death because of our deep love. Yet we celebrate with gratitude his life and ministry that touched and blessed us all,” the Archbishop said. “What remains now is to continue the dream he cultivated — that God is near and journeys with us.”
He concluded his message with words of love and gratitude: “Eternal thanks to you, our beloved Pope Francis. Eternal rest be yours. We, your beloved sons and daughters in Jaro, love you and will carry you and your vision for the future.”
