Pope Francis was a Pontiff who saw each person as unique and was, in turn, uniquely loved by all. A statesman of remarkable stature, lauded by world leaders as the “sunlight of the 21st century,” he led the global Catholic Church for twelve years with humility and grace. Following his departure, much has been written and heard about his greatness. People from various walks of life continue to share enduring memories of this extraordinary life. All of them say in unison: He was our Pope. Neither race, nor religion, nor ideology ever hindered that sentiment. A truly astonishing reality.
What, then, enabled such a radiant personality to emerge in a modern world increasingly fractured by rising walls and intensifying conflicts? The answer lies in the man Jorge Mario Bergoglio—his roots, the land where he was raised, the religious order he joined, and the values he embraced.
From Latin America to the World
Pope Francis is the first Pontiff elected from the American continent and the first in over a thousand years to hail from outside Europe. Born on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina—known globally for its football legends—he grew up in an era marked by crisis and limitation. Amidst health issues and hardships, his immigrant family held firmly to their faith. From his parents, Mario Bergoglio and Regina Sivori, he imbibed the foundations of Christian belief.
Political and economic instability in Argentina enabled him to see poverty and marginalization up close. His lived experiences trained him to treat the vulnerable with care. Compassion, integrity, simplicity, and humility became integral to his character.
The Joy of the Gospel
Gentle and heartfelt in all his interactions, Pope Francis’ demeanor reflected his inner convictions. Yet, when the moment called for it, he was never hesitant to speak uncomfortable truths or to take firm stances. Whether it was the construction of walls on the U.S.- Mexico border, the onset of the Russia-Ukraine war, the bombings in Gaza, or the sight of hungry people wandering the streets of Rome, his moral outrage was evident.
He firmly asserted that clericalism in the Church and patriarchy in society must undergo reform. He consistently emphasized that dedication should lead to joy and strove to express the “joy of the Gospel” even in the face of crises.
A Clear Message through Simplicity
On March 13, 2013, Cardinal Jorge Bergoglio was elected the 266th successor to Saint Peter. Almost immediately, he expressed his vision not through words, but through action. Choosing the name and style of Francis of Assisi, he sent a clear message about his path.
He abandoned traditional papal symbols such as red shoes and golden crosses in favor of simpler attire. Before giving the traditional Urbi et Orbi blessing, he humbly asked for the people’s prayers and blessings—gestures symbolizing a necessary return to the foundational identity of being the “servant of the servants of God.”
In the Language of the People
Pope Francis is uniquely known for his efforts to seek out the lost sheep. He communicated in a language that everyone could understand—one of love, gentleness, and conviction. Even many agnostics and non-believers encountered the divine through him.
Regardless of place or circumstance, he spoke of God and the divine to all, and many hearts were deeply touched. As a member of the Society of Jesus, he brought the core of Ignatian spirituality to life—demonstrating to the world how to live seeking God who is present in all things, at all times, and in every place.
He powerfully conveyed that God is not confined to traditionally perceived “holy places” but is present like a shadow even in unexpected people and situations. He called everyone—especially Christians—to recognize and revere the saints in our midst: in our own homes and neighborhoods. Through this invitation, Pope Francis reminded us that holiness is possible for all, everywhere.
A Media Luminary
When Pope Francis began his papacy, the world was at the peak of a social media revolution. It is noteworthy that he navigated this reality with great wisdom and grace. While Saint John Paul II was a beloved figure in the traditional media era, Pope Francis embraced the expanded possibilities of digital media to take evangelization in new directions.
He remained ever approachable to the media. By embracing traditional values while introducing modern modes of expression, he explored every possible avenue for evangelization. His appearances on Italy’s popular RAI television programs, where he engaged with everyday hosts, helped raise the reach of the Gospel to extraordinary levels.
A Language that United Humanity
Pope Francis always spoke in a language accessible to everyone. His words redefined meanings and gave new dimensions to familiar terms. Though born into an Italian immigrant family in Argentina, he deliberately refrained from overusing his fluency in Italian and Spanish. Instead, he chose plain, simple words that carried deep and relatable meanings—thereby creating a universal language of fraternity that transcended borders and ideologies.
Whenever he spoke, people felt, “He is speaking to me.”
Herald of Ecological Stewardship
Through encyclicals like Laudato Si’ (“Praise Be to You”) and other apostolic exhortations, Pope Francis emerged as a prophetic voice for environmental care. He urged the world to love and respect nature and the planet. His appeals to cherish and protect Earth have been foundational for many decisions taken by the United Nations and global organizations working on environmental issues.
Advocate of Gender Equality
Pope Francis also took significant steps in appointing women to key Vatican positions. Notably, he appointed Sr. Simona Brambilla as the prefect of a major Vatican Dicastery, Sr. Nathalie Becquart as undersecretary of the Synod of Bishops, and Sr. Raffaella Petrini as governor of the Vatican City State. These appointments marked important strides toward the empowerment of women within the Church.
Honored by Great and Small Alike
Leaders and high-level delegates from over 130 nations came to the Vatican to pay their respects during his funeral rites. They filled St. Peter’s Square and the Basilica with reverent tributes. The private meeting between President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during this time drew particular international attention.
Pope Francis made earnest efforts to find a resolution to the Russia–Ukraine conflict. When his body was brought to the Basilica of St. Mary Major for burial, the world noted who was chosen to carry it and who was invited to offer flowers. Both dignitaries and the poor were present there. In accordance with the Pope’s own wishes, the last viewing before burial was granted primarily to the homeless people of Rome.
A Universal Shepherd of All
The Catholic Church is both universal and inclusive. Pope Francis, who firmly held onto the mission of reclaiming the lost sheep, captured the hearts of the world with his preferential option for the poor and progressive vision. This prophetic voice of humanity now steps behind the curtain of time, having gifted the world a vision of Earth as a more compassionate, loving, and hopeful home.
Rev. Fr. Boby Alex Mannamplackal
