Brothers and Sisters,

It is with profound sorrow that the Intercultural Dialogue Institute (IDI) mourns the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, whose life, faith, and leadershiphave left an enduring legacy in the hearts of millions across the globe.

Pope Francis was a beacon of humility, compassion, and hope in a world so often in need of healing. Guided by deep spiritual conviction, he dedicated his papacy to uplifting the marginalized, advocating for social justice, and building bridges across religious and cultural divides. His unwavering belief in the power of dialogue, mercy, and shared humanity inspired people of all faiths and backgrounds.

Throughout his life, Pope Francis exemplified servant leadership and moral courage. His profound commitment to environmental responsibility, most notably through his encyclical Laudato Si’, and his tireless efforts to uphold the dignity and rights of every individual demonstrated his holistic vision for a just and compassionate world.

His sincere outreach to Muslim, Jewish, Orthodox, and other communities reflected a deep belief in the transformative power of interfaith understanding. These values resonate strongly with IDI’s mission to foster dialogue, mutual respect, and inclusive community-building.

As we grieve this tremendous loss, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the Catholic community in Canada and around the world. We give thanks for a life so beautifully lived in service to God and to humanity. In honoring his memory, we reaffirm our shared commitment to cultivating peace, unity, and understanding among all people.

May he rest in eternal peace.

Learn more here: https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2025-04/pope-francis-dies-on-easter-monday-aged-88.html