A Shepherd’s Heart

[The sad news found me at an Argentine restaurant, Where friends and I were chatting, exultant. But suddenly, one of us showed me the phone, The news was there, the pope is gone!]

From Argentina’s shore, a humble call, 
Francis arose, to serve one and all. 
A shepherd’s heart, with mercy’s gentle hand, 
To guide the Church, across the sea and land.

He speaks of love, for those in greatest need, 
The poor, the lost, a compassionate creed. 
A Church that opens wide her welcoming doors, 
Embracing all, on distant shores.

No toll-house grim, where judgment holds its sway, 
But understanding lightens every day. 
He calls us forth, to seek the lonely soul, 
And make them whole.

In simple life, a witness to the way, 
To share our bread, and brighten every day. 
With Peter’s charge and Ignatius’ fire, 
He leads us on, to lift each other in God’s desire.

A voice for those whom injustice has oppressed, 
In every heart, may love become a guest. 
Pope Francis, guide, in faith and charity, 
A witness to hope, for all eternity.

Thank you, Pope Francis, for teaching us Love,
For being a messenger of charity, like a dove.
Now that the Father has called you back in this Easter Season,
Rest in His peace, for He himself knows the reason.

Dominique Mukonda CICM