April 21 marked the first anniversary of the passing of Pope Francis. This anniversary has reminded us of the many ways in which Pope Francis blessed the Church and reminded us all of what really matters in life, which is our call to holiness.

For years in his former position in the Diocese of Brooklyn, Bishop Manuel de Jesús Rodríguez directed the adjudication of cases involving sexual abuse and misconduct involving minors and vulnerable adults.

“Souls who spread the honor of My mercy, I shield through their entire lives as a tender mother her infant; and at the hour of death, I will not be a Judge for them, but the Merciful Savior.” (“Divine Mercy in My Soul,” 1075).

Bishop Manuel de Jesús Rodríguez presided at a bilingual prayer vigil for peace April 11, 2026, at Holy Name of Jesus Church in solidarity with Pope Leo XIV, who celebrated a similar holy hour in St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican.