
God Speed, Pope Francis
Thank you, Pope Francis, for your service. We are better for it.
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Thank you, Pope Francis, for your service. We are better for it.

During and after his election in March 2013, Pope Francis was a man of many firsts.

On April 21, 2025, Easter Monday, people around the world awoke to the news that Pope Francis had passed away at the age of 88.

While the liturgical legacy of Pope Francis may have flown under the radar for many, several experts told OSV News his 12-year papacy made a definite impact.

Easter is certainly a time of the unexpected, the wonder of what was, is, and will be forever. I recently recalled a story from my maternal aunt. She had a home with a beautiful agrarian space, complete with a natural creek running through the property. When my aunt’s son was quite young, upon one such expedition, he found a new visitor in the stream. “Mom, I think I found God in the river!” he told her…

“Don’t forget the poor!” Brazilian Cardinal Claudio Hummes’ advice to then-Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio upon the Argentine’s election to the papacy.

Throughout his papacy, Pope Francis attempted to balance defending the church from criticism while showing compassion toward survivors, with often mixed results.

With the news spreading across the world regarding Pope Francis’ passing, the Franciscan Friars of the Province of Our Lady of Guadalupe react with words of comfort and peace, recognizing Pope Francis’ impact and legacy.

Pope Francis has died April 21 at the age of 88.

Considering Pope Francis’ debilitating health issues, my mind always goes back to when his papacy was announced to the world.