Lisa, the passing of Francis is so sad and grief is an appropriate response. So we grieve and it helps. But as you point out so beautifully death is a new beginning. I smiled when you mentioned the Pope’s visit to Philadelphia. I was there too. It was an inspiring day, one I will remember always. Francis had such a holy presence. Now he will intercede from heaven on his flock’s behalf and for all people. That’s the kind of man he was, a truly wonderful pope.
This is a lovely, tender reflection, Lisa. Thank you for sharing your thoughts. Personally, I wish I would have written him a letter... but I've already started having conversations with him, so I am grateful he feels closer now.
If I could say anything to Pope Francis it would be thank you for being a pastoral shepherd to the people of our Church and inspiring me to live more simply, care for creation, respect humanity, and use my gifts as a woman to glorify the Lord.
Sherry, I know he would be so very proud of the woman that you are and how you have taken his teachings--but especially the gospel--to heart in your ministry!!
Thank you for sharing this reflection. I would thank him for "Evangelii Gaudium". I feel like it renewed my spirit so much, both personally and ministerial. And just for his presence and example. I wish I had gone to World Youth Day to be in his presence!
Lisa, the passing of Francis is so sad and grief is an appropriate response. So we grieve and it helps. But as you point out so beautifully death is a new beginning. I smiled when you mentioned the Pope’s visit to Philadelphia. I was there too. It was an inspiring day, one I will remember always. Francis had such a holy presence. Now he will intercede from heaven on his flock’s behalf and for all people. That’s the kind of man he was, a truly wonderful pope.
Wasn’t that a beautiful experience! And of course you are right about Pope Francis. His intercession is a great gift 🎁
FYI https://open.substack.com/pub/stevenstaples/p/the-popes-final-message?r=1uy7bt&utm_medium=ios
Steven, thank you for sharing this link. I greatly enjoyed reading your post!
I would have liked to tell him...Thank you for your witness in words and deeds.
What a wonderful thing to say! 🙏
This is a lovely, tender reflection, Lisa. Thank you for sharing your thoughts. Personally, I wish I would have written him a letter... but I've already started having conversations with him, so I am grateful he feels closer now.
I agree with you on the fact that we can talk with him now (the way I do with my parents). Thank you for taking the time to comment, Angela!
https://mdavis19881.substack.com/p/polirant-the-hate-at-the-heart-of
Michael, thank you for taking the time to read my post and to share your link. I look forward to learning from your writing.
If I could say anything to Pope Francis it would be thank you for being a pastoral shepherd to the people of our Church and inspiring me to live more simply, care for creation, respect humanity, and use my gifts as a woman to glorify the Lord.
Sherry, I know he would be so very proud of the woman that you are and how you have taken his teachings--but especially the gospel--to heart in your ministry!!
Thank you for sharing this reflection. I would thank him for "Evangelii Gaudium". I feel like it renewed my spirit so much, both personally and ministerial. And just for his presence and example. I wish I had gone to World Youth Day to be in his presence!
Oh Rosie, that’s a good one!! You truly do live “the joy of the gospel!”