In Loving Memory of Pope Francis (1936–2025)

By: Inés Pezo

As the Church bids farewell to Pope Francis, a leader whose quiet strength and steady witness shaped more than a decade of Catholic life, his passing offers an opportunity for Catholics to reflect—not only on the milestones of his historic papacy, but on the spirit with which he carried it out: humble, pastoral, and deeply rooted in the Gospel. As we grieve his loss, we also recognize the enduring legacy he leaves behind—a legacy of mercy, joy, and hope that continues to guide the Church in its mission today.

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Pope Francis’ Legacy of Mercy, Joy, and Hope

On April 21, 2025, the Church and the world said goodbye to a shepherd who led with humility, tenderness, and unwavering faith. Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, dedicated his life to proclaiming the Gospel through word and example. As the first Jesuit and the first Latin American pope, he broke new ground in the way he called the Church to serve the poor, care for creation, and live out the joy of the Gospel. His papacy, beginning in 2013, was marked by a commitment to simplicity, compassion, and social justice. He chose to reside in a modest guesthouse rather than the Apostolic Palace and was known for his dedication to the marginalized.

A Pope Who Led by Example

From his first appearance on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica in 2013, Pope Francis invited all people to walk a path of compassion and simplicity. His message was one of mercy and encounter—a reminder that every person is seen and loved by God. Whether he was washing the feet of prisoners, embracing the sick, or quietly visiting refugees, his actions echoed the very heart of Christ.

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Pope Francis’ Impact on Faith Formation

As Catholic educators and families reflect on his remarkable legacy, we are reminded that the mission of evangelization and catechesis continues. Pope Francis frequently urged the Church to find new and creative ways to pass on the faith—especially to the young. His call resonates with those who bring faith to life in classrooms and parish communities each day.

Continuing the Mission Through Everyday Moments

During moments of liturgical reflection, or while preparing students for the sacraments, his emphasis on encounter and accompaniment can serve as a model. His teachings can be woven into everyday practices, whether through reflective seasonal prayers, catechetical insights, or family moments of shared prayer and reflection.

A Call to Unity and Joy

Pope Francis championed unity and dialogue. He reminded us that being Catholic means being joyful, merciful, and deeply engaged with the needs of others. His papacy leaves us with a simple but powerful mission: Go forth. Be not afraid. Serve.

A Final Blessing

Pope Francis reminded us in his final days, “We were not made for death, but for life.” May we carry forward and share his message of mercy and hope, allowing his life to inspire our own path of faith and the promise of eternal life to come. Sadlier joins the global Church in mourning the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, sharing in the profound grief of this loss and uniting in prayer with our brothers and sisters around the world.

“We were not made for death, but for life.” - Pope Francis

As we reflect and pray for the repose of his soul, we invite you to offer A Prayer for Those Who Have Died—a simple but powerful way to honor his memory and all those who have gone before us in faith.

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