Los Angeles County Mourns the Passing of Pope Francis

Pope Francis views the sculpture of St. Junípero Serra in Statuary Hall at the U.S. Capitol Sept. 24, 2015 (File Photo – CNS)

Los Angeles County is joining the world in mourning the death of Pope Francis, who passed away today at the age of 88. Revered for his humility, progressive leadership, and moral clarity, Pope Francis was the first pontiff from Latin America and a transformative figure in the Catholic Church.

By News Desk

Chair Pro Tem and First District Supervisor Hilda L. Solis issued a heartfelt statement reflecting on the Pope’s enduring legacy and the profound impact he had across faiths and continents.

“I join millions across Los Angeles County and around the globe in mourning the passing of Pope Francis,” Solis said. “As the first pope from Latin America, he brought a fresh and deeply human perspective to the Catholic Church and to the world. He challenged us to confront poverty, care for our planet, and uplift the dignity of women in the Church and beyond.”

Solis, who witnessed the Pope’s historic visits to the U.S. Capitol and White House, praised his leadership as “a moral voice for humanity.”

“His words and actions resonated far beyond the walls of any one faith,” she continued. “I was honored to see him at the U.S. Capitol and White House, where his humility, moral clarity, and deep compassion were on full display. He was a spiritual leader for Catholics—and a moral voice for humanity. May his kindness and light continue to guide us all. ¡Que viva el Papa!”

Chair of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Kathryn Barger also reflected on the Pope’s passing.
“Today, we mourn the passing of Pope Francis — a global spiritual leader whose compassion, humility, and unwavering commitment to service touched the lives of millions,” Barger said. “His message of peace, unity, and care for the most vulnerable transcended borders and faiths.”

Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis was elected as the 266th leader of the Roman Catholic Church in 2013. Over the course of his papacy, he championed social justice, environmental stewardship, and interfaith dialogue, earning admiration from both religious and secular communities around the world.

Plans for memorial services and global tributes are expected to be announced in the coming days.