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The Life & Legacy of Pope Francis

Pope Francis looking straight at the camera during his visit to CUA

With heavy hearts, we mourn the passing of Pope Francis.

A shepherd of profound faith and humility, he dedicated his papacy to mercy, justice, and care for the most vulnerable. His legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. 

Prayer for Pope Francis

O God, faithful rewarder of souls,
grant that your departed servant Pope Francis,
whom you made successor of Peter
and shepherd of your Church,
may happily enjoy for ever in your presence in heaven
the mysteries of your grace and compassion,
which he faithfully ministered on earth.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Presidential seal of The Catholic University of America
Letter from the President
We would do well to keep in our hearts the Holy Father’s continual exhortations to entrust ourselves entirely to the love of Jesus Christ.”

Remembering Pope Francis' 2015 Visit to Campus

Pope Francis came to the campus of The Catholic University of America on September 23, 2015. Students had unique opportunities to participate in preparing for the papal visit, welcoming Pope Francis when he arrived, and attending the mass he celebrated on the steps of the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception.

Watch the Papal Mass (2015)

Pope Francis celebrates mass on the steps of the basilica

Pope Francis' presence on campus affected the entire University, involving lots of preparation, and igniting great excitement amongst community members.

A large crowd of students, faculty, staff, and faithful in the D.C. area gathered on the University Mall to see Pope Francis.
Pope Francis waves to the crowd gathered to see him as he rides around Catholic University's campus on the popemobile.
Pope Francis makes his way through the University Mall on the popemobile.
Pope Francis incenses the altar during the mass he celebrated on the steps of the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception.
The procession of the bishops during the papal mass.
Deacons, accompanied by student volunteers, process to distribute Communion during the papal mass.
NBC News set up a rooftop studio during the papal visit on top of Father O’Connell Hall.
Pope Francis greeted seminarians inside the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception.
Students waited anxiously to see Pope Francis pass by on the University Mall.

Campus Events

Campus events for Pope Francis and the papal transition, organized for the Catholic University community. Additional events will be listed as scheduled.

Pope Francis during his visit to Catholic University in 2015

Pope Francis: A Legacy of Mercy

His papacy represented both continuity with the Church’s great body of teaching and distinctive contributions to communicating the faith.
Read more

Additional Stories

More stories from our campus community on Pope Francis' life, legacy, and the papal transition.

St. Peter's Basilica exterior
Faith & Service

Five Things About a Papal Transition That Reflect Catholic Theology and Beauty

Pope Francis celebrates mass on the steps of the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception
Faith & Service

Bonds With Pope Francis Go Beyond His Papacy

As Pope Francis celebrates 10 years as leader of the Catholic Church March 13, members of The Catholic University of America community reflected on how he has shaped the papacy and campus.
Faith & Service

Campus Leaders Reflect on Pope Francis' Legacy 10 Years After his Election

Information for the Media

Catholic University offers expertise on Church history and the papacy. Our communications staff can help you identify potential sources within the University community and arrange media interviews with University faculty, staff, and students.

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