By Maxwell Menkiti Ngene
The passing of Pope Francis leaves an indelible mark on the Catholic Church and the world at large. His remarkable papacy, spanning twelve years or thereabouts, truly demonstrated to us the transformative power of simplicity, compassion, humility, and service.
I vividly recall watching on television an evening Mass on March 13, 2013, when Pope Francis was announced as the new Pope. Little did we know that that moment would mark the beginning of a profoundly remarkable journey, one that would significantly impact not just the lives of Catholics but the lives of countless others who are not Catholics.
Throughout his papacy, Pope Francis was vocal and embodied the Gospel values of simplicity, compassion, and humility. He spearheaded the reformation of the papacy, eschewing ostentation, pomp, and pageantry for a life of austerity and service. His commitment to living the Gospel was unwavering, inspiring countless individuals, particularly devout Catholics, to reexamine themselves, their value, and their priorities.
Pope Francis’s leadership style was characterized by creativity, courage, and a willingness to challenge the status quo. He took bold steps to reform the Church, promoting a more inclusive and compassionate approach to doctrine and dogma. His commitment to social justice, environmental sustainability, and interfaith dialogue is very likely to have achieved the desired results. In this regard, he succeeded in inspiring a new generation of leaders and change-makers.
As the College of Cardinals gather to select a new Pope, our earnest prayer is that they should be guided by the same principles that defined Pope Francis’s papacy. May they choose a pope (leader) who will serve as a model, one who embodies the values of simplicity, compassion, and humility, a leader who will continue to inspire and guide the Church toward a better world and a brighter future.
The politics of the Sistine Chapel will undoubtedly play a significant role in the election of the next Pope. However, It is our hope that the Cardinals will remember the example set by Pope Francis and choose a leader who will continue to promote the values of the Gospel.
As we reflect on Pope Francis’s legacy, we are reminded of the profound impact one value-laden person can have on the entire world. His papacy was a testament to the power of simplicity, compassion, and humility. May his example continue to inspire us to live lives of service, love, kindness, and mercy.
Rest in peace, Pope Francis. Your legacy will live on in our hearts, inspiring us in our quest for a more just, compassionate, and sustainable world.
Dr Maxwell Menkiti Ngene, a university lecturer, wrote from Enugu.
