Pope Francis

A Homage to Pope Francis: Shepherd of the Margins​

In an age often marked by division and indifference, Pope Francis emerged as a beacon of humility and compassion. Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, he became the first Jesuit and Latin American pope in 2013. From the outset, he chose a path of simplicity, residing in the Vatican guesthouse and favoring modest attire over traditional papal regalia.​

His pontificate was characterized by a profound commitment to the marginalized. In 2013, his first trip outside Rome was to Lampedusa, where he mourned migrants who perished at sea and decried the "globalization of indifference." He continued to champion the cause of migrants, bringing Syrian refugees to Rome and emphasizing that "God walks with his people," especially those forced to flee their homes.​

Pope Francis also extended a hand of inclusion to the LGBTQ+ community, famously stating, "Who am I to judge?" when asked about gay priests. He approved blessings for same-sex couples, provided they don't resemble marriage vows, signaling a more welcoming stance within the Church. ​

His environmental advocacy was groundbreaking. In his 2015 encyclical Laudato Si', he called for a "cultural revolution" to address ecological and economic injustices, urging care for our common home. ​

Despite facing criticism and challenges, including the clergy sexual abuse scandal, Pope Francis remained steadfast in his mission, his mission of serving the poor and embracing the vulnerable. He implemented reforms to address abuse within the Church and emphasized the importance of mercy and inclusion.  ​

I had the rare the opportunity to meet him in 2016.  It was a life-changing experience for me.

Pope Francis passed away on April 21, 2025, leaving behind a legacy marked by reform, compassion, and a deep focus on mercy and inclusion within the Catholic Church.  ​

May his life inspire us to act with humility, to embrace the marginalized, and to walk together in solidarity and love.​