After a remarkable 12-year papacy, Pope Francis has left an indelible mark on the Catholic Church and the world at large. His election in March 2013 was a watershed moment, as he became the first pope from the Americas, the first Jesuit to hold the position, and the first pope to take the name Francis -- a homage to St Francis of Assisi, known for his humility and love for the poor. This choice signalled a shift in the Church's ethos, emphasizing a "poor church for the poor," a principle he exemplified throughout his tenure.
At the outset, Pope Francis exhibited a distinctive pastoral vision, emphasizing mercy, inclusion, and social justice, the founding principles that resonate deeply with a diverse global audience. His approach startled many who anticipated a more traditional papacy. By washing the feet of women inmates during Maundy Thursday services, he extended the Church’s message of inclusivity and equality. He favoured simplicity over grandeur, opting for modest accommodations and cars, and responding to people not from a throne but face-to-face, earning the title of the "People’s Pope."
His papacy has been characterized by a commitment to reform — particularly in addressing the longstanding issues of the Vatican Curia, which had struggled with transparency and efficiency. Under his leadership, meaningful reforms have sought to include laypeople in key Church roles, thus promoting a more participatory governance model. For instance, his apostolic constitution, Praedicate Evangelium, established a new framework that rendered the Roman Curia more accountable and responsive to the faithful.
Beyond administrative reforms, Pope Francis tackled moral and ethical issues head-on, fostering discussions about divorce, same-sex relationships, and the role of women in the Church. His focus on compassion and tenderness has reframed the Church’s dialogue around difficult issues, encouraging an atmosphere where diverse viewpoints can be aired and understood. Notably, he maintained the Church’s core doctrines while inviting more equitable engagement with contemporary societal challenges.
In Goa, his advocacy for the marginalized aligns closely with the Goan spirit of inclusiveness, which is particularly vital in the state's ongoing challenges with tourism and socio-economic inequality. His calls for interfaith dialogue also find meaning in Goa, especially in times when minorities are feeling marginalised and targeted. By championing environmental stewardship, he inspired many, including Goans, to promote sustainable practices and respect for nature, crucial for the region's health and the tourism-driven economy.
As we reflect on the papacy of Pope Francis, we see a leader who walked alongside the people, advocating for a Church grounded not only in dogma but in lived experience and pastoral care. His warm demeanour and willingness to engage with the world’s challenges such as the refugee crisis and economic inequality endeared him to many outside the confines of traditional Catholicism.
Pope Francis's legacy serves as a reminder that compassion and humanity must drive our spiritual and social endeavours. His request for prayers not only exemplified his humility but also encouraged an intimate relationship between the faithful and their God. In doing so, he inspired countless individuals, including many in Goa, to embrace active engagement in their communities and to uphold the dignity of every human life.
Pope Francis has not merely left behind teachings, he has transformed hearts and minds, championing the notion that the Church must continually surprise the world with love, mercy, and a genuine commitment to the welfare of all people. His footprints will remain etched on the global canvas of faith, urging everyone to take courageous steps toward a more compassionate world.
