Paalam, Lolo Kiko!

Paalam, Lolo Kiko!

By Danica Ann E. Magat

We were all shocked by the news yesterday on Pope Francis’ death. We saw in the media a recovering, not a dying pope. But perhaps Pope Francis really loved to surprise us- not just in his life but even in his death.

The love of the Filipino people for Pope Francis is a profound and heartfelt expression of a faith that runs deep through generations. In a nation where Catholicism is woven into the fabric of daily life, the arrival of Pope Francis in 2015 was not merely a visit from a religious leader—it was the coming of a spiritual father, a shepherd to his flock. What makes the connection between Filipinos and Pope Francis so unique is the genuine warmth and humility he embodies, which resonates deeply with the Filipino heart. In a country that has known both joy and suffering—from natural disasters to socio-political struggles—Pope Francis stood as a symbol of compassion, hope, and solidarity. His visit to Tacloban, in the wake of Typhoon Yolanda's devastation, touched countless lives. Despite the stormy weather, he chose to be with the people, sharing in their grief and offering words of comfort and prayer. It was a moment that etched itself in the soul of the nation.

Filipinos saw in Pope Francis a leader who lived the very Gospel he preached. His simplicity, his concern for the poor, and his tireless call for mercy and love mirrored the values many Filipinos hold dear. He reminded the country of the importance of the family, of caring for one another, and of finding God even in the most broken moments of life. Now, the “People’s Pope” is dead but his memories live within our hearts. Lolo Kiko, pray for us always. We love you!
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