The whole world is saddened by the passing of Pope Francis on Easter Monday. We are sad because we have lost a good and humble shepherd. Catholic faithful, pilgrims, and tourists from all over the world gathered in St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City for a chance to catch a glimpse of Pope Francis one last time.
Many people and world leaders offered prayers for the pope’s soul. People of different social statuses posted and shared pictures with the Pope on social media. These throwback pictures speak a thousand words about how Pope Francis was loved by the people. His gestures of love, equality, simplicity, humility, and compassion shine through, as he always supported the poor, the deprived, the marginalized, the weak, and the vulnerable. He led the Church by example, bringing peace, healing, and reconciliation.
Filipinos loved Pope Francis as much as he loved them. Many people have throwback pictures with Pope Francis. We are also proud to have so many memories with the Pope when he visited the Philippines, which was hit by the super typhoon Yolanda many years ago. During that time, we experienced horrible and deadly weather phenomena, but Pope Francis, the successor of St. Peter, supported us in our pain and suffering, mourned with us for our losses, and gave us inner strength and hope during difficult times. His visit to the Philippines was recorded as having the largest papal crowd in history. He will forever be in the hearts of Filipinos.
Pope Francis remained faithful until his last breath. Despite his age and deteriorating health, he made one final appearance on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica to deliver his Easter message and greetings to the people and pilgrims waiting for him.
We were all saddened by the news the day after Easter Sunday—the passing of our beloved Pope Francis.
We mourn his death and pray that his soul is welcomed into heaven and shares in God’s glory.
I watched the funeral service of Pope Francis live on television. World leaders, dignitaries, and religious figures attended.
This time, I did not let my husband hold or touch the remote control; otherwise, when a commercial came on, he would change the channel, and I would miss something.
Still, people are flooding St. Peter’s Square and the streets of Vatican City and St. Mary Major to show their love, respect, and final honors to the pontiff. The pope’s body is laid to rest here, as he requested. From now on, this place will be a pilgrimage destination.
As we celebrate the 500 years of Christianity in the Philippines. The Chaplaincy to Filipino Migrants organises an on-line talk every Tuesday at 9.00pm. You can join us at:
https://www.Facebook.com/CFM-Gifted-to-give-101039001847033
Thank you, Pope Francis, for setting an example of humility and simplicity. The memories of you will always live in the hearts of those you touched, and your teachings will always linger. May your legacy continue with the next pope, who will carry out Christ’s mission to bring salvation to the human race.
Thank you and farewell, Pope Francis.
Lynn Salinas-Batoliño
The Philippines
