TEXAS — Both religious leaders and state officials have expressed their condolences after the news of Pope Francis’ death was announced on Monday. 

Pope Francis, who was the first Latin American pontiff and charmed the world with his humility and concern for the poor, died Monday at 88.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, a practicing Catholic, released a statement Monday morning following the pope’s passing. 

“Cecilia and I join more than one billion Catholics across the globe to honor the legacy of Pope Francis. Throughout his papacy, Pope Francis led with a quiet strength and a servant’s heart, reminding us of the value of human dignity,” the statement read. “He was a bold and unwavering voice in defense of life, championing the unborn, the vulnerable, and the marginalized with conviction and compassion. Our hearts go out to all who join us in mourning his death and remembering the impact his teachings had upon their lives. Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.” 

U.S. Rep. Michael McCaul, R-Austin, posted a photo of him and others meeting Pope Francis on X and said "his legacy will live on in the hearts of millions."

"It was an experience of a lifetime to meet the Holy Father the Pope to gain his wisdom and receive his blessing," McCaul said. "A humble shepherd, he led with compassion, courage, and devotion to God and to the world’s most vulnerable."

U.S. Rep. Joaquin Castro, D-San Antonio, also took to X to remember Pope Francis, calling him a "true advocate for the powerless and the marginalized."

U.S. Rep. Vicente Gonzalez, D-McAllen, said he and his wife were among the "millions across the world" mourning the loss of Pope Francis, according to a post on X. 

"He was a champion for the poor, the marginalized, and the voiceless not only throughout his 12-year papacy, but also in the decades that led up to it," Gonzalez said. "I pray his humble nature, devotion to God, and desire to build a more compassionate and just world continue to live through us. May he rest in eternal peace with God."

U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, posted on X saying he is “praying for our Catholic friends in Texas, across America, and around the world during this time of mourning.”

U.S. Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, posted a simple message of “RIP” on X. 

Catholic leaders across the state also made statements about Pope Francis’ death. 

Very Rev. James Misko, the diocesan administrator of the Diocese of Austin, posted a photo of him and Pope Francis along with a statement on the diocese’s website. 

“Ever devoted to the Blessed Virgin Mary and with her intercession, his commitment to social justice and a deep care for the poor and those on the peripheries of society will remain among his many legacies,” the statement said. “The first pontiff from the Americas, Pope Francis brought a new perspective to the papacy, humbly saying to the crowds in St. Peter’s square the night of his election, ‘It seems that my brother cardinals have gone to the ends of the earth to get one (a Pope), but here we are.’ I ask the people of the Diocese of Austin to join in prayer with the Universal Church and all people of goodwill to express our gratitude to God for the life of Pope Francis.”

Bishop Michael Olson of the Diocese of Fort Worth posted on X asking for people to join him in praying for Pope Francis. 

Olson posted a longer statement on the Diocese of Fort Worth’s website.

Archbishop Gustavo García-Siller of the Archdiocese of San Antonio also posted a photo of him and Pope Francis on Facebook and commended the late pope for his advocacy for migrants across the world. 

“We were inspired by the Holy Father’s advocacy for migrants globally and of his commitment to provide services and minister to all of God’s children,” the post said. “He emphasized that in welcoming the stranger we are welcoming Christ (Matthew 25:35). He worked for the conversion of hearts and minds, to create a culture and practice of hospitality in receiving migrants.”

García-Siller said information on masses in both Spanish and English to remember Pope Francis will be announced soon.