Pope Francis returned to the house of the Father
George Kommattam - April 2025
Pope Francis, the gentle shepherd of over a billion souls, has departed from this world, returning to the house of the Father. His death, at the age of 88, marks the closing of a transformative chapter in the history of the Catholic Church. For twelve years, Jorge Mario Bergoglio, known to the world as Pope Francis, led with a heart full of mercy, humility and a tireless commitment to the poor and persecuted. His was a papacy that touched not just the Church, but the hearts of people around the globe.
From the very beginning of his pontificate, Francis broke with tradition. He chose simplicity over grandeur, living in the modest Casa Santa Marta rather than the opulent Apostolic Palace. His actions spoke louder than his words - a life dedicated to caring for the poor, the outcasts, and the suffering. He was not just a Pope; he was a companion, a brother, a friend to all who walked the difficult path of life.
A son of Buenos Aires, Francis carried with him the struggles and hopes of Latin America, bringing a new voice to the Vatican - one that was compassionate, inclusive, and unafraid to challenge the status quo. His mission was clear: to build a Church that welcomes all, regardless of race, class, or creed. His words on social justice, environmental care, and the dignity of all people resonated deeply, echoing the teachings of Christ that call for mercy and love, especially for the most vulnerable.
His papacy was not without challenges. He faced intense criticism from both ends of the spectrum - from conservatives who questioned his progressive stance, to liberals who felt he did not go far enough. Yet, through it all, he remained steadfast, guided by a belief in the transformative power of love. He was the Pope who said, “Who am I to judge?” in reference to the LGBTQ+ community, showing that his heart beat in tune with the deep, unconditional love of Christ for all.
Francis’s encyclicals, Laudato si’ and Fratelli tutti, are legacies that will endure. In Laudato si’, he called for a collective awakening to the crisis facing our planet, urging the faithful to embrace the Earth as a sacred gift. In Fratelli tutti, he reminded us that we are all brothers and sisters, regardless of nationality, religion, or status, calling for a renewed sense of fraternity in a world often divided by borders and hate.
He was a humble man who wore his faith like a garment of mercy, never forgetting that true leadership meant serving those who were most in need. He made the Vatican a more open place, allowing laypeople to take on leadership roles and demanding greater accountability in the Church. In an era where scandals rocked the foundations of the Church, Francis sought to heal its wounds, calling for justice, transparency, and healing.
Though Pope Francis’s health began to falter in his final years, he never wavered in his commitment. He carried on, despite his knee pain, his surgeries, and his breathlessness. He continued to meet the world with a smile, sharing with the faithful his hope, his joy and his love. His final appearance on Easter Sunday, standing before the crowds in St. Peter's Square, was a testament to the deep bond he shared with the people of the world - a moment of grace that reminded us all of the Pope’s enduring spirit.
In death, as in life, Pope Francis leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and unwavering faith. His journey is now complete, but the seeds he planted will continue to grow. As the bells toll and prayers rise for his soul, we give thanks for the gift of his life. His was a ministry that transcended the walls of the Vatican, touching every heart that sought the light of Christ’s love.
Pope Francis, you are now in the embrace of the Father, but your voice - a voice that called for mercy, encounter and joy - will never be silenced. May we continue to walk in your footsteps, as we strive to build a world that mirrors the compassion and love you so selflessly embodied. Rest in peace, dear Pope Francis.
Send your feedback to : onlinekeralacatholic@gmail.com
