Pope Francis: A Shepherd of Hope & Humility

  •   Mon, May 05 2025
  •   By Fr Ajay Nelson D'Silva SJ

May 5, 2025

With the passing of Pope Francis, the world says goodbye not just to a spiritual leader, but to a remarkable man whose legacy goes beyond the Catholic Church. For those of us who admired him—not just as the head of the Church, but as a genuinely humble and relatable person—his impact is unforgettable. He felt like one of us in a way that few public figures can. His life stood as a powerful example of humility, courage, and compassion in a world that often lacks all three. 

In a time filled with division, inequality, and disillusionment, Pope Francis provided something truly special: a voice of moral clarity grounded not in ideology, but in empathy. He dreamed of a Church that was lively, merciful, and deeply human—and he consistently embodied that vision. From the start, he was recognized for his spiritual depth and unwavering dedication to the poor and marginalized. As Archbishop of Buenos Aires, he turned down privilege, opting to live in a small apartment and use public transportation—a lifestyle that would come to define his papacy.

Becoming Pope: A Breath of Fresh Air 

After his election as a Pope, by choosing the name Francis, inspired by St. Francis of Assisi, he made it clear what mattered most to him: humility, simplicity, and a heartfelt concern for the environment and the less fortunate. 

His very first act as pope spoke volumes: standing on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, he bowed his head and asked the crowd to pray for him before giving his own blessing. This moment perfectly encapsulated his approach—favouring closeness over distance, listening over lecturing, and love over strict rules. 

A Pope Who Walked the Talk 

Throughout his time as pope, Francis truly embodied the values he preached. Often referred to as the “people’s pope,” he was seldom seen in lavish robes or fancy shoes. Instead, he opted for simple clothing, travelled in unpretentious vehicles, and made it a point to visit prisons, hospitals, homeless shelters, and refugee camps. 

He envisioned the Church as more of a family of believers. His famous call for pastors to “smell like the sheep” became a rallying cry for Church leaders to engage with the messy realities of life. For many, this vision brought back a sense of warmth, relevance, and approachability to an institution that often felt remote.

A Voice for Justice and Mercy 

Pope Francis boldly tackled the pressing issues of our time. From climate change and economic inequality to migration, war, and the dignity of every human being, he spoke with a heartfelt conviction. His 2015 encyclical, Laudato Si’, was a game-changer—not just for its message, but for its ability to resonate with people beyond the Catholic community. It was a passionate plea for everyone to take care of our “common home” and to look out for one another. 

Challenges and Reforms 

His papacy wasn’t without its challenges. He led during a time of significant tension within the Church, facing pushback from both traditionalists and progressives. He also had to deal with the painful legacy of abuse scandals, striving for transparency, accountability, and healing. 

Pope Francis advocated for meaningful reforms in how the Vatican operates, encouraged more inclusive participation in Church life, and amplified the voices of women and laypeople. His focus on a “synodal Church” highlighted his belief in the importance of listening—not just to the Church’s leaders, but to the faithful around the world.

A Personal Inspiration

For many people, including myself, Pope Francis was so much more than just a religious leader. He embodied what it means to have genuine faith in action. His life taught us that being holy isn’t about being perfect; it’s about love. He demonstrated that true leadership is rooted in service, that real strength can be found in gentleness, and that everyone is within the reach of God’s mercy. He reminded us of the incredible power of hope, humility, and the connections we share as humans.

Conclusion: A Pope for the Ages

Though Pope Francis may no longer be with us, his legacy continues to thrive—in the lives he impacted, the hearts he comforted, and the conscience he awakened. He didn’t lead with an iron fist; instead, he guided us with an open heart. He broke down barriers, opened up new paths, and walked alongside those who felt forgotten and broken. He will be remembered not just as a pope, but as a shepherd who mirrored the compassion of Christ in a world that desperately needed it. For those of us who admired him and drew inspiration from his life, Pope Francis will always be more than just a Pope — he was a pastor, a brother, and a true friend to each one of us.

 

 

 
By Fr Ajay Nelson D'Silva SJ
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