The Salvation Army responds to the death of Pope Francis
- simoneworthing
- 7 hours ago
- 2 min read
The Salvation Army has extended condolences to the Roman Catholic Church and Roman Catholics worldwide following the death of Pope Francis, aged 88 years, on Monday 21 April 2025.
The first Jesuit priest and the first Latin American to ascend to the Papacy, Pope Francis will be well remembered for his exemplary and faithful service to God, the Church and the world.
“From humble beginnings,” said The Salvation Army’s international leader, General Lyndon Buckingham, “his focus on God’s mercy, dedication to environmental stewardship, and deep concern for the poor and vulnerable have made a great and lasting legacy.
“The Salvation Army is also appreciative of Pope Francis’s unwavering commitment to interfaith discourse and is grateful for the ecumenical dialogue fostered under his papacy.”
Australian response
Australia’s Territorial Commander, Commissioner Miriam Gluyas, said that it is with sadness that we acknowledge the passing of Pope Francis.
“His Holiness was a beacon of compassion, humility and unwavering faith, whose life and ministry touched countless hearts around the world,” she shared. “His dedication to serving the marginalised and advocating for justice and peace resonated deeply with our own mission.
“As we mourn this great loss, let us also celebrate the legacy he leaves behind. Pope Francis advocated for economic justice and highlighted the need to foster a global community that cares for the wellbeing of the poor.
“Through his encyclical ‘Laudato Si’, he highlighted the connection between environmental issues and the impact on vulnerable communities, advocating for sustainable practices that protect both the planet and people.
“In this time of reflection, let us come together in prayer, honouring his memory. We also pray for his people, that they may find comfort and strength during this time.”
Salvation Army connection
The Salvation Army’s involvement with the work of the Dicastery for Promoting Christian Unity, our ongoing dialogue on shared matters of priority and concern, and our worldwide partnership in caring for the poor have been hallmarks of The Salvation Army’s relationship with Pope Francis, and we are thankful for his long-standing support.
In a 2019 meeting at the Vatican, Pope Francis shared the first lesson he ever received in Christian service when, at four years old, he met several members of The Salvation Army while with his grandmother. In remembering his encounter with Salvationists, he said that the Army’s “example of humble service to the least of our brothers and sisters spoke louder than any words”.
In particular, the Pope thanked Salvationists for caring for the homeless and marginalised, and for their efforts in fighting human trafficking. Pope Francis pointed out that “in a world where selfishness and divisions abound, the noble fragrance of genuine self-giving love can offer a much-needed antidote”.
The Salvation Army is indebted to Pope Francis for his encouragement and blessing.
The Salvation Army honours the memory of Pope Francis and joins the world in saluting his service to the Kingdom of God.
