Fargo’s Catholic bishop says immigration was a ‘hallmark’ of Pope Francis

FARGO (KFGO) – Diocese of Fargo Bishop John Folda says the plight of immigrants is among the most prominent issues Pope Francis will be remembered for.

Pope Francis died Monday following a lengthy battle with health issues. He was 88.

“There’s no question that he has certainly given a lot of attention to the plight of immigrants and the homeless and the poor, in general” Folda said. “I think really, he’s drawn the attention of the world to people in need, especially migrants who are fleeing persecution and poverty and sometimes it’s a matter just of survival. He really has focused on that issue. It’s one of many, but that’s really been kind of a hallmark of his pontificate.”

Francis was suffering from chronic lung disease. He was hospitalized for 38 days, beginning in February.

North Dakota Gov. Kelly Armstrong said Pope Francis led by example with humility, kindness and respect for the dignity of all God’s children. 

“We join members of the Catholic Church in North Dakota, and all who admired him around the world, in mourning his passing and honoring his legacy of servant leadership and caring for those in need,” Armstrong said. 

North Dakota Sen. Kevin Cramer said Pope Francis followed in Christ’s footsteps, promoting compassion and dignity for all. 

“He faithfully served over a billion around the globe, exemplifying a servant leader. His passing is a great loss for Catholics and the world,” Cramer said.

Minnesota Sen. Amy Klobuchar said she was honored to be part of the escort committee that brought Pope Francis around the Capitol when he addressed Congress in 2015. 

“That speech was a resounding call for us to put aside our differences and come together with a renewed spirit of cooperation in pursuit of the common good. One moment in particular stood out to me from that day – as the Pope was getting ready to address thousands of people gathered on the Mall, one of the security guards plucked a woman out with her baby, who Pope Francis blessed. He understood that faith exists in the moments big and small,” Klobuchar said.

The pope made his last public appearance on Easter Sunday, a day before his death, to bless thousands of people in St. Peter’s Square.