Pope Francis, who died a few weeks ago, was universally celebrated as the “pope of the people.” His papacy, which started in 2013, was a breath of fresh air, ushering in a new age of inclusivity and compassion to the Catholic Church. Dynamic, charismatic, and engaging, as the first South American and Jesuit pope, he provided much needed outside-the-box vision to the Vatican. His message touched a chord with the faithful and gave hope to millions.
Throughout his time as leader of the Catholic Church, Pope Francis emphasized the importance of reaching out to the marginalized and vulnerable. He often referred to the church as “a home for all, a home with its doors always open,” reflecting his commitment to creating an inclusive environment for everyone. His pastoral heart gave him the tools to get near the “least of these,” which made his teachings more accessible, engaging and life-changing.
Throughout his papacy, Pope Francis was best known for his advocacy on behalf of migrants and refugees. Second, during these days, he took an extraordinary step by visiting the Mexico-United States border. There, he went on to infamously chant the slogan, “Build bridges, not walls.” This one short sentence reflected his view that we should seek to create connection and empathy, not fear and alienation. While on the island of Lampedusa in mid-September, he fervently appealed for compassion for migrants. He called on humanity to have a heart and embrace the free-movers in search of a better life.
The late pontiff’s legacy should be marked by his steadfastness to the world’s vulnerable and downtrodden. He sought to transcend rigid dogma and therefore developed a more expansive, inclusive, and compassionate understanding of faith. This is apparent in his epistolary remarks in support of LGBTQ+ people. In what may have been the first truly “woke” statement of papal history, he continued, “Who am I to judge.” This lamentation demonstrated, perhaps more than anything else, his yearning for the church—the church’s acceptance and embrace, their understanding and appreciation.
In his personal life, Pope Francis often returned to the papal basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore on the Esquiline Hill before and after international trips. It was here that he found spiritual succor and guidance. Upon his death, he left behind a deeply moving request. It was his wish to be laid to rest in this hallowed ground, where he had poured over thousands of hours of thought.
Pope Francis’s coffin was lowered into a niche that once held candlestick holders, a poignant reminder of his humble beginnings and commitment to simplicity. The inscription on his tomb bears only one word: “Franciscus,” signifying his identity as a leader devoted to serving others.
In response to his passing, many have taken to social media and public spaces to express their gratitude for his leadership. One placard on a friend’s building summed it up well, “Grazie Francesco,” the gratitude of myriad people influenced by his ministry.
He had a heart,” remembered Martin Joseph, remembering the ways in which Pope Francis connected with people of every age and background. Tiziana, another individual who felt a connection to the pope, stated, “The god is inside. I’m here to be with the people, and to keep the pope company.” Not just opinion These sentiments are a testament to the authenticity of the affection and respect that he earned during his short papacy.
The cardinal emphasized that during his tenure, Pope Francis emphasized that the church should be “a home for all, a home with its doors always open.” This vision informed so much of his work to promote a welcome and inclusive environment in the church.
Few people in history have had such a palpable effect on their world as Pope Francis. His legacy will continue to live on not only in the principles he fought to elevate, but in the lives he impacted. In many ways, that persistent compassion is the greatest testament to Bennett’s legacy and the best call to action for all of us to advocate for those in need.