Passing of Pope Francis: Premier Smith

Apr 21, 2025

Premier Danielle Smith issued the following statement on the death of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025:

“His Holiness Pope Francis devoted himself to guiding nearly 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide with humility and compassion.

Alberta was honoured to welcome the Holy Father in 2022, a visit that brought moments of worship, reflection and an important step toward healing. His meeting with Indigenous leaders and his apology for the legacy of residential schools were acts of humility and reconciliation – reminders that faith calls us to forgiveness.

Today, we join with Catholics across our province and the world in mourning Pope Francis, reflecting on a life dedicated to God and to the service of others.

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