FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
April 21, 2025
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OCP Founder and Board Member Issue Statements on the Passing of Pope Francis
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, One Country Project (OCP) Founder Senator Heidi Heitkamp and Board Member and former Ambassador to the Holy See Joe Donnelly issued the following statements on the passing of Pope Francis who presided over the Catholic Church for more than 12 years:
“As a lifelong Catholic I am sad. I join the countless others who mourn his passing, express our condolences for his family, and honor his legacy as an incredible leader and force for good,” said former Senator Heidi Heitkamp. “Pope Francis dedicated his life to serving others through God and his Church. He was a true messenger of hope, leading with decency and empathy to others, especially the poor. The Pope embodied many of the values that One Country Project stands for. His legacy is a reminder that there is still work to be done to address the global challenges of today and lift up all communities around the world.”
“In a world of uncertainty and chaos across the globe, Pope Francis remained committed to helping poor and marginalized communities. He will always be remembered for his dedication to serving and advocating for others,” said former Senator Joe Donnelly. “The Catholic Church is one of the largest religious groups in the United States, touching all communities from rural to urban areas. As a practicing Catholic, I believe the absence of the Pope’s presence in the Church will be deeply felt by those in rural America and beyond.”
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About One Country Project
Rural America holds an essential role in moving the United States forward and the One Country Project is dedicated to ensuring rural America’s priorities and values are heard and reflected in policy at the federal level. To learn more, visit us at www.onecountryproject.com or on Twitter or Facebook.