U.S. Cardinal Kevin J. Farrell, the “camerlengo” or chamberlain of the Holy Roman Church, announced to the world that Pope Francis had died April 21 at the age of 88.

Baltimore Archbishop William E. Lori said April 21 that he was saddened to learn of Pope Francis’ passing and that he plans to attend his funeral as well as host a memorial Mass locally.

What the “Stabat Mater” conveys, the sorrows of Mary witnessing the crucifixion of her son, is worth pondering.

Pope Francis, who died April 21 at the age of 88 gave new energy to millions of Catholics — and caused concern for some — as he transformed the image of the papacy into a pastoral ministry based on personal encounters and strong convictions about mission, poverty, immigration and dialogue.

The road to Emmaus reminds us that Christ goes with us everywhere, walking and talking among us: in our conversations and debates, in ordinary meals and sacred liturgies, in journeys near and far. Our hearts burn within us, too, whenever we realize he has been right next to us all along.