Sad news came today as Pope Francis, the 266th leader of the Catholic Church, passed away. He had been elected Pope back in 2013, taking over for Benedict XVI. As the first Jesuit Pope the first one from Argentina and South America, and the first non-European Pope in centuries, Francis made history from the start.
He will be remembered most for connecting with regular folks - being humble and caring about the poor, the forgotten, those pushed aside and his constant message of love and community paved the way for the Church in todays world. From early on, Francis spoke out for social justice, taking care of the environment, and bringing religions together. He called out inequality capitalism that leaves people behind, and global systems that are unfair. By frequently meeting impoverished communities and refugees, he was calling the world to humanity.
It is with a heavy heart that I share the news of Pope Francis passing. It feels like we have lost not just a religious leader, but a truly compassionate soul. My thoughts are with all those who are grieving his loss.
