Bishop Kukah Mourns Pope Francis: The World Has Lost A Genuine Moral Compass

LMSINT MEDIA reports that the global Catholic community and millions of faithful are mourning the passing of Pope Francis, who reportedly died at the age of 88 due to complications from a cerebral stroke and heart failure. The Vatican confirmed the solemn news early Monday morning. Source: The Vatican News

In a heartfelt statement, Bishop Mathew Kukah, the Catholic Bishop of the Diocese of Sokoto, described Pope Francis as “a sincere and compassionate leader the world will deeply miss.” He praised the late pontiff for redefining the Christian message and championing humanitarian causes throughout his papacy.

A Leader Who Stood for the Marginalized

According to Bishop Kukah, Pope Francis was a revolutionary figure who challenged traditional barriers within the Church, freeing Jesus’ message from “dogmatic cages” and restoring its essence of liberation and love. He noted that the late pope consistently prioritized the vulnerable, the poor, and those often overlooked by society.

“With Pope Francis gone, the world has lost a moral compass. He stood shoulder-to-shoulder with the weak, spoke out against injustice, and reminded us of the urgency of caring for our common home.” — Bishop Kukah

Environmental Stewardship and Interfaith Brotherhood

Bishop Kukah highlighted Pope Francis’ pivotal 2015 encyclical Laudato Si’, which brought global awareness to environmental degradation and climate change, urging political and corporate leaders to act responsibly. Read more from the UN on Laudato Si’

In 2020, the Pope’s commitment to interfaith dialogue bore fruit with the publication of Fratelli Tutti, co-developed with the Chief Imam of Al-Azhar Mosque. This influential encyclical called for universal brotherhood, social cohesion, and collaboration beyond religious boundaries.

Evangelii Gaudium and His Pastoral Vision

From the beginning of his papacy, Pope Francis made it clear he would focus on a message of joy and spiritual renewal. His 2013 document Evangelii Gaudium (The Joy of the Gospel) served as a pastoral blueprint, emphasizing inclusiveness, mercy, and outreach to the peripheries of society.

Kukah acknowledged that although some of the pope’s views stirred debate, there was no denying his profound impact on faith, politics, and humanity at large.

“Some may interpret his legacy through ideological lenses, but the authenticity of his mission cannot be erased. His death is a turning point—not just for Catholics, but for the world.”

A Church at a Crossroads

As the Church now looks to the future, Bishop Kukah expressed hope for a new pontiff who will build upon Pope Francis’ legacy. He emphasized the timeless relevance of Jesus’ teachings, which transcend political or ideological lines.

For more updates and reflections on global religious events, visit our Religion & Faith section on LMSINT MEDIA.