‘A Shepherd of Unity and Justice’ - World Methodist Council mourns death of Pope Francis

The World Methodist Council (WMC) has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Pope Francis, describing him as a spiritual leader who championed unity, humility, and justice throughout his papacy.

In a heartfelt tribute released on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, the same day the Vatican announced the Pope’s passing the President of the WMC, Bishop Debra Wallace-Padgett, and its General Secretary, Rev Dr Reynaldo Ferreira Leão Neto, described the news as a great sadness shared by the global Methodist community.

“We speak on behalf of the World Methodist Council in expressing our great sadness at the loss of Pope Francis. From the seat of St. Peter he exercised primacy, calling us to unity in love and diversity,” the statement read.

The leaders recalled a recent private audience with the Pope in December 2024 at the Apostolic Palace in Rome, where Francis welcomed them “as siblings in Christ” and encouraged deeper ecumenical ties.

“Pope Francis welcomed us as siblings in Christ. He invited all to have an open mind and heart to one another: ‘In this way our communities will manage to unite the different minds and wills, letting ourselves to be guided by the Spirit’,” they quoted the late Pontiff.

They highlighted Pope Francis’ acknowledgment of the progress made in Catholic-Methodist relations:

“We can now thank God because, for 60 years, we are progressing together in knowledge, in mutual understanding and love.”

“This has helped us to deepen our mutual communion.”

The WMC noted the Pope’s deep commitment to spiritual renewal and his enduring concern for the marginalized poor.

“He was always calling us all back to service to and with the poor. He courageously called us to speak prophetically for justice. The Pope also invited us to share in the joy of the Gospel.”

The statement also praised his groundbreaking role as the first Pope from Latin America and the first to adopt the name of Saint Francis of Assisi

“He was the first Pope to take the name of the saint who brought such renewal to the Church, calling all to a life of holiness, setting an example of humility, and demonstrating a deep spiritual love for the created world.”

They also recognised his Jesuit roots and emphasis on prayers.

“Methodists understood his emphasis on a discipline of prayer, and his constant request for us not to forget to pray for him. We considered it a privilege to fulfil that request.”

The WMC leaders concluded their tribute writing, “Though Pope Francis is no longer physically with us, he leaves an example to be followed. We say goodbye, Pope Francis, until we meet again in the Eternal City of God.”

Pope Francis, the 266th Pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church, leaves behind a legacy defined by compassion, reform, and a relentless pursuit of unity among Christians.