Knights of Columbus Supreme Knight Patrick Kelly offered condolences and prayers April 21 following the death of Pope Francis, praising the late pontiff’s legacy of charity, fraternity, and encouragement of Catholic men and families.

“Pope Francis was a powerful witness to charity and fraternity, calling us from his first days as pope to reach out to the margins of society and serve those who are too often forgotten,” Kelly said in an emailed press release.

He noted that the Knights of Columbus worldwide join in mourning the Bishop of Rome, uniting with Catholics and people of all faiths to honor the pope’s spiritual leadership.

The Supreme Knight highlighted the close relationship the fraternal organization maintained with Pope Francis during his pontificate. He said the pope consistently encouraged the Knights’ charitable work and gave his blessing to their mission, especially their international humanitarian efforts.

“Pope Francis was also very supportive of our efforts to help Catholic men be better husbands and fathers and take up co-responsibility for the Church’s mission of evangelization,” he added.

Kelly concluded, “Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.”