‘A shepherd for all’: Fil-Ams mourn the passing of Pope Francis
FILE PHOTO (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)
NEW YORK — The news of Pope Francis’ passing has deeply touched the global Catholic community, including many Filipino Americans who hold a special reverence for him.
In New York, community leader Loida Nicolas Lewis expressed her sadness.
“I am very sad about Pope Francis’ sudden death on Easter Monday,” Lewis told Inquirer.net USA.
“On Holy Thursday, he visited prisoners despite his doctors’ advice. On Easter Sunday, he greeted visitors from his window at the Vatican. In death, as in life, he exemplified a true shepherd – tending his sheep, especially the marginalized and the powerless – and promoting peace in war zones. May God welcome him into eternal life. Amen.”
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, his journey to the papacy was nothing short of extraordinary.
He was the first non-European pope in nearly 1,300 years and one of the oldest to assume the role. From a young age, Bergoglio felt called to serve, entering the seminary at 16, and later leading the Jesuits in Argentina. His humility and dedication culminated in his election as pope in 2013, following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI.
Unlike his predecessor, who was admired for challenging secular trends, Pope Francis sought to modernize the Catholic Church.
He championed the poor, migrants and the environment, and adopted a more compassionate stance toward divorced and gay Catholics. His efforts around social justice and addressing sexual abuse scandals faced resistance from ultra-conservatives, yet his humility endured.
Many who have met him recall life-changing moments.
In 2017, freelance journalist Georgio Dano described how meeting Pope Francis at the Vatican lifted his spirit profoundly.
“I didn’t wash my hands for two days,” he said. “A marriage blessed by Pope Francis reminds us every day to hold onto our faith and trust in God’s plans.”
Similarly, Georgio’s wife, Lauren Elizabeth – a librarian at the New York Public Library and a Filipino Catholic – shared her own unforgettable encounter.
Husband and wife Georgio (left) and Lauren Dano (center) meet Pope Francis and receive his blessing during their honeymoon at the Vatican in 2015. Lauren says, “Meeting Pope Francis felt like a blessing over our new life together.” Photo from Georgio Dano/Facebook
“Meeting Pope Francis during our honeymoon in 2017 was deeply meaningful,” she told Inquirer.net USA.
“It was incredibly humbling to see the Holy Father at the Vatican. Sharing that moment with my spouse made it even more special – like a blessing over our new life together. His presence radiated peace, reminding us of the power of love, unity and faith to guide us through every chapter of life.”
Georgio and Lauren Dano receive blessing from Pope Francis. Photo from Georgio Dano/Facebook
Pope Francis’ visit to New York City in 2015 left a lasting impression, especially among Filipinos.
I was there as a correspondent for Inquirer to cover the historic events, including his address to the UN General Assembly and the Mass at Madison Square Garden.
The author at the United Nations General Assembly, where Pope Francis delivers a speech. CONTRIBUTED
One of the most memorable moments was his motorcade through Central Park, where I was among the 80,000 spectators.
His visit resonated deeply with Filipino families, who expressed their gratitude and reverence.
Pope Francis’ motorcade in New York City | CONTRIBUTED
Pope Francis in his Popemobile on his way to St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City | CONTRIBUTED
“Pope Francis was a fearless moral voice in a world too often hardened by injustice,” said John Bahia, special projects coordinator for Queens Assemblyman Steven Raga.
“His compassion for the poor, displaced and forgotten moved millions across faiths and borders. He reminded us that humility, mercy, and justice are signs of true strength. May his light continue to guide us.”
On social media, many shared their personal memories.
NBC entertainment reporter Manny Dela Rosa wrote, “Awwww, rest in peace Pope Francis. He was my mom’s favorite for his compassion and advocacy for social justice. We even traveled to Rome to see him.”
Photographer Edwin Santiago recalled his mother’s lifelong dream.
Edwin Santiago with his mom (in wheelchair) and family in Rome, celebrating his mother’s 75th birthday by attending Mass and seeing the Pope. Photo from Edwin Santiago/Facebook
“Since I was a kid, my mother always wanted to see the Vatican,” he shared. “For her 75th birthday, I took her on a pilgrimage across Europe. We heard Mass with the Pope, and she was beyond ecstatic. In 2015, our family returned, and we came even closer to him. Rest in peace, Pope Francis – thank you for your service.”
Pope Francis’ motorcade in Rome | Photo by Edwin Santiago
Remembering the fall morning of 2015 when Pope Francis visited the UN headquarters in New York, and delivered an address to the General Assembly, Angat Buhay USA chairperson Roger Santos shared that he was fortunate to be invited by the Apostolic Nuncio to the UN, Archbishop Bernardito Auza.
“I can still remember his words,” Santos told Inquirer.net USA. “’Every Christian man and woman, by virtue of baptism, has received a mission.’ These words we carry as missionaries for Couples for Christ in our evangelization efforts throughout the world. Grant eternal rest to the soul of Pope Francis, O Lord, and let Your perpetual light shine upon him.”
Former US President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama issued a joint statement: “Pope Francis was a leader who inspired us to be better people. Through his humility and acts of kindness – embracing the sick, caring for the homeless – he shook us out of complacency and reminded us of our moral obligations to God and one another.”
New York Governor Kathy Hochul echoed these sentiments.
“Pope Francis embodied Christ’s teachings – helping the less fortunate, calling for peace and affirming that every person is a child of God,” she said.
“He led with compassion, humility and inclusivity, emphasizing that God does not disown any of His children. He was a man of peace and a fighter for social and economic justice.”
Reflecting on his influence, she added, “Last year, I was honored to speak at a Vatican climate summit where His Holiness called on the world to save our planet and protect the vulnerable. He blessed my husband Bill and me on our 40th wedding anniversary – a moment I will cherish forever.”
In a statement honoring the passing of Pope Francis, President Donald Trump issued a proclamation, expressing the nation’s respect and mourning.
He ordered that the American flag be flown at half-staff across all federal buildings and military posts until the day of the pope’s interment.
In his words, the president paid tribute to Pope Francis’ legacy of humility, compassion and faith, emphasizing that his life and leadership continue to inspire people around the world.
Among the last world leaders to meet him was Vice President JD Vance, who was blessed to see the Pope shortly before his passing.
It’s believed that Pope Francis blessed many during his final days, reaffirming his role as a shepherd for all.
Rest in peace, Pope Francis. Your legacy of humility, compassion and unwavering faith will forever remain in our hearts.
