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Statement From Rockland County Legislature Chairman Jay Hood Jr. On The Passing Of Pope Francis

"At such a joyous time of year for myself and other Catholics, it comes as a particularly hard blow to learn that Pope Francis has died.

Just yesterday he was celebrating the most holy day of the year for all Christians, the Resurrection of Jesus Christ, whom he so lovingly served.

Pope Francis is admired by people across the world because he was a compassionate and humble servant of the people who cared for all of humanity - no matter their faith. He made people feel welcome and seen, and while no person is perfect, Pope Francis embraced the poor and the marginalized while also calling out the behaviors that he felt ran contrary to the definition of what it means to be a Catholic, a Christian, and a Human Being.

Pope Francis was 88 but neither age nor illness seemed to truly slow him down. Contained within him was a fire and a love of God and Jesus Christ and People. He has gone to the ‘House of the Father,’ but he has left all the world better for our time with him. May He Rest In Eternal Peace."

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