By Danica Ann Magat
Social media is flooded by memories and photos of Pope Francis. Indeed, many of us Catholics miss our dearly departed Pope. But why do we miss him so much?
Pope Francis has left an indelible mark on all peoples- Catholic or not- because his papacy was defined by humility, inclusivity, and a deep concern for the marginalized. From the moment he chose the name “Francis” in honor of St. Francis of Assisi—a symbol of poverty, peace, and care for creation—it was clear that his papacy would represent a shift in tone and priorities.
One of Pope Francis’s most notable legacies is his emphasis on mercy over judgment. He opened wide the doors of the Church to those who had felt alienated, including divorced and remarried Catholics, LGBTQ+ individuals, and non-believers. His famous refrain, “Who am I to judge?” signaled a pastoral approach that emphasized compassion and understanding over doctrinal rigidity. While he did not seek to radically change Church doctrine, his tone and focus have been profoundly reformative, urging the Church to be more a “field hospital” than a fortress.
Francis also brought global attention to issues of economic inequality and environmental degradation. His encyclical Laudato Si’ was a groundbreaking document that wove together theology, science, and social justice, calling for urgent action to protect the planet and the poor. This commitment to ecological responsibility reshaped how the Church engages with climate issues and has influenced faith-based environmental movements around the world.
Basically, Pope Francis is greatly missed because he led the Church by his examples of humility and simplicity. Pope Francis, pray for us and inspire us to follow your examples.
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