Governor Said Pope Francis Left Legacy

By Keila Szpaller Daily Montanan

Gov. Greg Gianforte asked Montanans to remember the late Pope Francis as a kind and humble leader.

The pope died Monday at the age of 88, according to the Associated Press. He was the first pope from Latin America and presided for more than 12 years.

“Susan and I join Christians across Montana and around the world in mourning the loss of his holiness, Pope Francis,” Gianforte said in a statement. “After leading a life of service to the Lord, Pope Francis leaves a legacy of kindness and understanding toward the most vulnerable among us.

“His humility was an example for us all. As we celebrate the Easter Season, let us be reminded of his humility and service to others using our God-given gifts to bless one another.”

Gianforte cited a Bible verse, 1 Peter 4:10, in the news release: “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”

An estimated 55 percent of Montanans are Christian, including 12 percent who are Catholic, according to a Pew Research Center study from 2023-24.