Rosemont College joins the world in mourning the loss of Pope Francis. Rosemont President Jim Cawley issued the following statement: 

“As a college rooted in Catholic values, Rosemont has long admired Pope Francis’ unwavering commitment to social justice and the dignity of every person. His call to embrace one another and create a more welcoming Church has inspired people across the globe. 

Members of the Rosemont community were proud to take part in the Holy Father’s Synod on Synodality, an initiative aimed at fostering inclusivity and collaboration within the Catholic Church. I am honored that our students and faculty were able to lend their voices to this important global dialogue, helping to promote a spirit of communion and emphasizing the power of listening in Church decision-making. 

Many in our community also fondly remember Pope Francis’ first visit to the United States in 2015, when he came to Philadelphia. Rosemont’s Campus Ministry team played a key role in organizing the College’s participation, as students, faculty, and staff joined thousands of others who lined the streets to witness this historic and deeply meaningful visit. 

Let us reflect on the powerful words of Pope Francis, which echo the enduring spirit of Cornelia Connelly, foundress of the Society of the Holy Child Jesus:  

‘It is not enough to say we are Christians. We must live the faith, not only with our words, but with our actions.’  

These words resonate deeply with Cornelia’s own guiding principle: “Actions, not words.”  

Together, their wisdom calls us to embody our faith through meaningful and compassionate action.  

With grateful hearts, we offer prayers of thanksgiving for Pope Francis’ leadership and that his soul may find eternal peace.”