Since the passing of Pope Francis, I have been reflecting on how his tenure has impacted me. Sometimes, we, as protestants, puff our chests out, put our noses in the air, and say things like, “I’m not Catholic; what does the Pope have to do with me.” It’s a tell-tale sign that some of us have no sense of church history. For me and my ministry, Pope Francis’s life was a profound reminder of the humility, compassion, and social engagement, offering invaluable lessons for people of all faiths and backgrounds. His approach to leadership is grounded in a deep sense of humility, exemplified by his choice to live in a modest residence rather than the opulent papal apartments. By embracing a simpler lifestyle, he embodied the belief that good leadership is about serving others rather than seeking personal glory. This humility inspires those within the faith and encourages all to practice selflessness in our daily lives.
Pope Francis stood as a passionate advocate for the marginalized and a voice for social justice. His tireless efforts to uplift the poor and disenfranchised illustrated to many of us a deep-seated compassion that is both refreshing and necessary in today’s world. He never shied away from addressing urgent social situations, such as poverty, inequality, and environmental losses. By consistently aligning his actions with his messages of compassion, he reinforced the idea that caring for those who suffer is not just an obligation but a core tenet of faith. He challenged all of us to engage critically with the systemic injustices around us and to act wherever possible.
If that wasn’t enough, he consistently proclaimed a Gospel that resonated deeply in a time when many felt disconnected from their faith. He emphasized the importance of sharing the message of Christ’s love through both word and deed, encouraging people everywhere to become ambassadors of hope and reconciliation. He was a living illustrated sermon.
May his memory always be a blessing!