Roseau, Dominica, 22nd April 2025 – I was deeply saddened after learning of the
passing of our Holy Father, Pope Francis, at age 88, at His residence at Casa Santa Marta, Rome, on the morning of Easter Monday, the day after the most sacred day in The Christian year, when billions of Catholics celebrate the resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Despite the fact that His Holiness was ailing for some time, His passing came as a great shock, having been seen a number of times in public at the Vatican during Holy Week, which culminated in an Easter Sunday appearance at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.
Pope Francis was an example of a true Christian disciple of the Lord Jesus and a great
spiritual leader who epitomized genuine love, humility, and compassion.
The Holy Father was well-respected and touched the lives of millions around the world. He
devoted His entire life to His spiritual ministry and will be long remembered for His tireless advocacy for peace, social justice, and for the vulnerable and disadvantaged, and the great importance he attached to forgiveness and reconciliation. Prior to His passing, the Holy Father asked the world, once again, “for the courage to change direction, to follow a path that does not destroy, but cultivates, repairs, and protects.”
My husband, Mr. Gilbert Burton, joins me in conveying to His only living sibling, Maria Elena Regina Bergoglio; to the Clergy and Religious and the Catholic Community here in Dominica and throughout the whole world, our deepest condolences during this sad and mournful time.
Long live the legacy of the Holy Father, and may his soul rest in eternal peace.