A Message from Terrence M. Sawyer, J.D., Loyola’s President: Honoring Pope Francis’ legacy

Terrence M. Sawyer, J.D., president of Loyola University Maryland, shared the following message with the Loyola Community April 22, 2025, regarding the death of Pope Francis:

Dear Members of the Loyola Commnity,

When Pope Francis was elected 12 years ago, we were surprised and proud to welcome the first Jesuit pope. Even knowing all that the Society of Jesus has given to the world, however, we never could have imagined the transformational impact a Jesuit pope could have.

Pope Francis’ leadership reflected the Jesuits’ four Universal Apostolic Preferences—showing the way to God, walking with the excluded, caring for our common home, and journeying with youth. He led with a commitment to serving and accompanying those who are on the margins of society, including the poor and the imprisoned. He encouraged us to work for justice and peace, to approach others with love and mercy, and to serve God by seeing the needs of others—and working to meet those needs.

Today, as we mark Earth Day, we can reflect on the ways that Pope Francis advanced efforts related to sustainability, urging us to see care for our common home and take an ecological approach to justice. At Loyola, our ongoing progress as a Laudato Si’ university has certainly been strengthened and challenged by the pope’s call for greater action in hearing the cry of the earth and the cry of the poor. To celebrate Earth Day, Loyola is offering several Earth Week events. As we implement our strategic plan, Together We Rise, we will continue to strive to advance sustainability efforts and become a leader in integral ecology in Pope Francis’ memory.

Several members of our Loyola community are reflecting on Pope Francis' contributions and legacy in a tribute on the Loyola news site.

Prayer Opportunities

Pope Francis had a great love for prayer and often invited people to pray. As we remember and celebrate Pope Francis, we are offering opportunities to come together in prayer:

• Gathering of the Baltimore Ignatian Family: St. Ignatius Catholic Community in Baltimore will be hosting a prayer service for Pope Francis today, April 22, at 7:30 p.m. All are welcome.
• Mass in Alumni Memorial Chapel: The 12:10 p.m. Mass on Wednesday, April 23, in Alumni Memorial Chapel will be celebrated in memory of Pope Francis. The Chapel will also continue to offer its normal daily Mass schedule through the last day of classes, April 28.
• Chapel Open for Private Prayer: Alumni Memorial Chapel will be open all day on weekdays to offer dedicated space for quiet reflection and prayer for the repose of Pope Francis’ soul. The Campus Ministry team will display a portrait of Pope Francis with candles and flowers. Please feel welcome to stop by to reflect and pray in that sacred space.
• Intentions at Sunday Mass: Pope Francis will also be included in the intentions of the Prayer of the Faithful for the 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. Masses in Alumni Memorial Chapel on Sunday, April 27.

Academic Symposium

In the months ahead, as we reflect on Pope Francis’ contributions, the Catholic Studies Program, Theology department, and the Mission and Identity division will collaborate to create an academic symposium to celebrate, honor, and reflect on his life and legacy. More details will be shared as that event is planned.

Resources for Support

As you process this news in the context of everything else you are navigating, please know that we have professionals across the University who are prepared to assist and support you. Students can contact the Counseling Center and Campus Ministry. If you need assistance outside regular business hours, please call the department of public safety at 410-617-5911, and they will connect you with someone who can help. Faculty, staff, and administrators can reach out to counselors at Acentra, Loyola’s Employee Assistance Program, at 1-800-765-0770.

Gratitude

As we reflect on the gift that Pope Francis has been to the Catholic Church and to the world, let’s consider his life with deep gratitude. He said himself, “If we are bearers of gratitude, the world itself will become better, even if only a little bit, but that is enough to transmit a bit of hope.”

Remembering Pope Francis’ legacy, we carry on with gratitude and hope.

Sincerely,

Terrence M. Sawyer, J.D.
President of Loyola University Maryland,