POPE Francis I’s death hardly came as a shock. He was, after all, 88. He had been ill. In fact, he had a prolonged stay in the hospital beginning February. His doctors said he had come close to death during that confinement.
His actual passing Monday morning was a surprise, nonetheless. The world believed he was recovering. His appearance on Easter — what would turn out to be his last — inspired many who saw that it was possible to fight a life-threatening illness and carry on with one’s mission despite a serious health condition.
The Vatican said the pontiff died of a cerebral stroke that caused a coma and irreversible cardiocirculatory collapse.
More than being a surprise, Pope Francis’ passing caused a void and occasioned grief among the global Catholic Church in general and among Filipinos in particular.
His death now leaves the global Catholic Church, which is also the prime religion in the Philippines, in mourning. In many ways, Francis was a pioneer, going into areas where his predecessors dared not go. He was first to acknowledge the need for inclusivity in the Church where tradition has made some of the faithful feel judged and unaccepted. It was also under his rule that abuses by the clergy were recognized instead of hushed or covered up. He presided over the Church during the trying days of the pandemic, and of multiple wars in various fronts, inspiring Catholics to persevere in their faith despite tribulations.
Most memorable to Filipinos was the Pope’s trip here in 2015, where he went to Tacloban City and said Mass amid bad weather, comforting the people whose lives were upended by the disaster and conveying unconditional love and overwhelming compassion.
The next few days will be spent mourning the death of a true Church leader, and choosing Pope Francis’ successor. As millions of Catholics grieve the death of the beloved Francis, may we also look forward to the future leader who will bring the Church closer to the people, and people closer to it. May Catholics be constantly guided by the core teaching of love of neighbor while navigating challenges of changing times.
