Goodbye, Francis, pope of mercy

On Easter Monday 2025, Pope Francis ended his earthly pilgrimage. Upon hearing the news, my first reaction was, of course, sadness. Like many, I had hoped he was on his way to recovery—although slow, an expected outcome given his age. 

His last address and yearning to be among the people reflect, I think, the heart of his papacy. Francis wanted to be where no one else even thought to go. He would reach out as far as he could to those on the peripheries of society. He always preached on mercy and he never failed to offer it to all faithful, and to all those facing dire situations.

Francis is my pope, as he helped to restore my Catholic faith. I have always felt in different settings like an outsider within the Church. Despite having attended Catholic schools, I never quite fit in and struggled to see the significance of my faith. However, I have always had a desire to promote issues of social justice and be a voice for the voiceless. I made sure to be active in many outreach programs not only in high school but also as I entered university. Subsequently, my career was largely dedicated to the work of equity.

Becoming more attentive to the words of mercy that Pope Francis demonstrated breathed new life into my Catholic faith. I felt connected to his message and it confirmed my own personal and professional convictions. The spirituality in which I became resolved still animates my role in the fight for justice, truth, and mercy. 

Pope Francis discussed so many issues that I could easily identify with. It made me feel that my faith could only increase my desire for truth and justice efforts. Francis also awakened in me the realization that I need to study and grow in learning. Inspired by his desire for those on the peripheries, I am now well on my journey into the academic theological tradition. As a Catholic thinker, I am proud to say I am heavily influenced by the thought of Pope Francis.

It is now a sad time because we are without the voice of Pope Francis, so impactful and influential. The faithful at large, like myself, will miss him greatly. The world will always remember his beaming smile. 

Merging my Catholic faith and academic goals has helped me gain fulfillment as a Catholic. I am also happy to say that I can be a lay person, student, emerging scholar, advocate, and equity seeker all at once. Pope Francis helped me to see this. Like him, I will always seek out those on the peripheries. 

Papa Francesco, I will miss you, and I pray heartily for the deserved, peaceful repose of your soul.

Tamika Royes has fifteen years of experience in the social services sector in various roles. She has been a tireless advocate of justice causes, beginning in high school. She is currently pursuing a post-graduate certificate at Assumption University.

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