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Reflections on Pope Francis: A Legacy of Compassion and Courage

Pope Francis chose to continue his work despite health challenges, demonstrating his commitment to serving those in need, according to Archbishop Paul Gallagher, the Vatican’s foreign minister since 2014.

In a recent interview, Archbishop Gallagher shared insights into the Pope’s determination, emphasizing that Francis wanted to “die with his boots on.” He highlighted the Pope’s deep empathy for the marginalized, which motivated him to pursue his mission relentlessly even when advised to take a step back.

Describing the Pope as a kind and gentle individual, Archbishop Gallagher noted that Francis was also resolute in his beliefs and often took a stand against the counsel of his advisors. “One thing I always admired about him—though I didn’t always agree with it initially—was that he faced challenging issues head-on,” Gallagher remarked, commending the Pope for his significant courage.

Pope Francis, who made history as the first Latin American pope, passed away on Monday at the age of 88 after battling health issues, including a five-week hospitalization due to double pneumonia.

Archbishop Gallagher expressed his dismay over the profound loss felt following the Pope’s death. He acknowledged Francis as the “voice of the voiceless,” articulating the struggles faced by the majority of people who feel powerless to change their circumstances. “He believed he could help make a difference in their lives,” Gallagher noted.

Throughout his papacy, which involved numerous international trips, the Pope showed particular concern for vulnerable populations, including migrants and women and children affected by conflict. Archbishop Gallagher observed that the Pope’s connections to these communities were deeply felt, enhancing his understanding of their hardship.

Gallagher remarked that Pope Francis rarely took breaks from his responsibilities, suggesting he hadn’t had a holiday for “66 or 67 years.” This relentless commitment to his role exemplified the Pope’s belief in his capacity to alleviate suffering.

Francis’s inaugural trip outside Rome was to Lampedusa, where he met migrants. Over the years, he traveled extensively, visiting more than 60 countries—even those deemed unsafe by his aides. One notable instance was his insistence on visiting the Central African Republic despite concerns regarding security. “He simply declared, ‘I’m going, and if no one accompanies me, that’s fine. I’ll go alone,'” Archbishop Gallagher recalled, emphasizing the Pope’s unwavering resolve.

The Pope’s creativity and willingness to engage with a diverse range of individuals often defied institutional norms. Archbishop Gallagher highlighted Francis’s refreshing ability to prioritize human connections over formalities, reminding Vatican officials to regard migrants not as “numbers,” but as individuals with stories and aspirations.

During official engagements, observers sometimes noted the Pope appearing fatigued or disengaged. Archbishop Gallagher acknowledged this perception, noting that Francis preferred interactions with ordinary people, especially youth, over meetings with dignitaries.

The lasting impact of Pope Francis’s tenure includes breaking down barriers between the Church and the general public, portraying himself as approachable and relatable. “He was very normal and engaging,” Gallagher commented, recalling shared moments of humor. The last piece of advice Francis offered to him was, “Don’t lose your sense of humour,” encapsulating the Pope’s down-to-earth nature.

Following his passing, over 250,000 people attended the lying-in-state in St. Peter’s Basilica from Wednesday to Friday, paying their respects ahead of the funeral on Saturday.

You can watch and follow the funeral live here on the BBC News website and app. In the UK, live coverage will also be available on BBC One and the BBC News channel, along with the BBC World Service.

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www.bbc.com