“Since the start of his papacy, he has consistently highlighted the importance of serving the poor and championing social justice”
THE passing of Pope Francis marks not only the close of a significant chapter in the Catholic Church’s history but also sparks contemplation about its path forward.
His life and leadership underscored the value of servant leadership amidst the complexities of today’s world.
His legacy continues to inspire, urging the Church and its followers to live out the ideals of love, humility, and selfless service.
Pope Francis is often called the “Pope of the Poor” because of his strong commitment to advocating for marginalized, impoverished, and vulnerable groups around the world, from refugees to indigenous peoples.
Since the start of his papacy, he has consistently highlighted the importance of serving the poor and championing social justice.
He has also been called the “Pope of the planet” because of his passionate and consistent advocacy for climate and environmental justice.
Francis redefined the papacy by embracing simplicity and placing service above grandeur. He championed mercy over judgment, presenting a bold and compassionate vision for the Catholic Church.
His inclusive leadership—reaching out to people of all backgrounds—redefined global perceptions of the papacy. By stepping beyond traditional roles and spaces, he brought a more personal, relatable, and heartfelt approach to pastoral care.
His modest way of living and his final wishes spoke volumes about his belief in servant leadership.
Choosing to be laid to rest this Saturday in the more accessible Basilica of St. Mary Major symbolized his enduring desire to remain among the people, especially the overlooked and underserved, embodying a legacy of humility and closeness.
Pope Francis upheld traditional views on issues such as abortion and priestly celibacy. Yet, in other areas, he broke with convention, reshaping the role of the papacy.
Notably, he opened the door to blessings for same-sex couples, signaling a more inclusive and pastoral approach.
Pope Francis, beloved ‘Lolo Kiko’ to Filipinos, touched the hearts of millions of Filipinos during his landmark visit to the Philippines in 2015.
From the rain-drenched Mass in Tacloban to the heartfelt encounters in Manila, each moment highlighted the profound faith and warmth of a nation that embraced the Bishop of Rome with open arms and unwavering devotion.
At the UST Grandstand and Open Field, on Jan. 18, 2015, Pope Francis exhorted the Filipino youth:
“So let yourselves be surprised by God! Don’t be afraid of surprises, afraid that they will shake you up. They make us insecure, but they change the direction we are going in. True love makes you “burn life”, even at the risk of coming up empty-handed.
“Think of Saint Francis: he left everything, he died with empty hands, but with a full heart.”
On a personal note, I was profoundly influenced by this first Pope from the global South. His choice of name – Francis – struck me right away after his election in 2013. I wept when I heard that name proclaimed as I have had a special affinity to Saint Francis since 1981 when I visited Assisi for the first time.
Indeed, as I have written in my memoir Ransomed by Love, my life work on climate and environmental justice and on peace and human rights began on Jan. 6 (Feast of the Magi) 42 years ago (1981) in Assisi in San Damiano.
In this church, where Jesus on the cross called on San Francesco to repair his church, I also heard the voice of the Lord asking me to always pray the Canticle of Creatures and the Peace Prayer.
His two encyclicals Laudato Si (2015) and Fratelli Tutti (2020) have shaped my thinking and advocacy in recent years. Indeed, I teach courses about these two encyclicals.
And I now frame my mission as loving all creatures, great and small, and loving those we do not know.
I practice political love, as Francis describes it in Fratelli Tutti.
In his final written words, published shortly before his death, Pope Francis reflected on death as a new beginning.
He described eternal life as a deepening continuation of the love experienced on Earth, encouraging people to view death not as an end but as a transition to eternal life, a new and everlasting reality.
God bless and God speed Pope Francis. Please pray for us!
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