As the global Church observed the novemdiales—the nine-day mourning period following the death of a pontiff—Jesuit Communications (JesCom) compiled a series of inspiring hallmarks that defined the remarkable life and legacy of Pope Francis, the first Jesuit pope and a shepherd of extraordinary grace, humility, and conviction.
Jorge Mario Bergoglio, S.J., elected the 266th successor of St. Peter in 2013, broke ground in many ways: as the first pope from the Americas, the first Jesuit to ascend to the papacy, and the first to take the name Francis. His transformative leadership was deeply marked by a strong commitment to mercy and compassion—virtues needed now more than ever in today’s challenging times.
Throughout his 12-year papacy, Pope Francis championed causes that echoed the heart of the Gospel. From the very start, his emphasis was clear: God’s love is for all. In his inclusive and non-judgmental tone, he reminded the world that before any social, political, or religious label, we are beloved children of God.
He became a tireless bridge-builder in the realm of interfaith dialogue. Whether it was his historic February 2019 meeting with Muslim leaders in Abu Dhabi, or his sincere efforts to heal divisions with the Orthodox Church, Pope Francis’ papacy stood as a bold witness for unity and peace in a fragmented world.
In young people, Pope Francis saw prophetic fire. His first World Youth Day in Rio de Janeiro, in July 2013 was filled with a dynamic and energetic atmosphere, challenging the youth to take risks for Christ and the Gospel, and to be “revolutionaries” of love and justice in a hurting world.
Early in his papacy, Pope Francis immediately made a powerful statement by visiting Lampedusa, where he denounced the “throwaway culture” and stood in solidarity with migrants and refugees. He never backed down from advocating for the voiceless, the displaced, and the forgotten, declaring that “no one is disposable.”
For Pope Francis, the Church is called not to comfort, but to mission. He envisioned a Church that goes out to the margins, “bruised, hurting and dirty because it has been out on the streets,” rather than closed off in privilege and self-preservation.
His Apostolic Exhortation Evangelii Gaudium (“The Joy of the Gospel”) emphasized that true joy is found not in material success, but in knowing and proclaiming the love of Christ. This joy ultimately became the beating heart of Pope Francis’ papacy.
Through Laudato Si’ and Laudate Deum, Pope Francis led the call for ecological conversion, reminding us that the earth is our common home, entrusted to us by the Creator and meant for the good of all.
Above all, Pope Francis was a man of genuine encounter. Whether embracing the sick, washing the feet of prisoners, or blessing a child with disabilities, his gestures spoke volumes: faith is not just about doctrine, but relationship. It is about meeting Christ in the other—especially in those whom society has neglected.
As the College of Cardinals prepares to enter conclave on May 7th, JesCom and fellow Jesuit mission partners pray that the Church’s next shepherd may dutifully carry forward Pope Francis’ bold and tender spirit.
Indeed, may Pope Francis’ legacy of mercy and compassion continue to shape the Church he dearly loved and faithfully served.
AMDG
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