Known affectionately as the “People’s Pope,” Pope Francis garnered admiration not only within the extensive Catholic community but also from a global audience for his steadfast advocacy for the marginalized and underprivileged during his 12-year papacy. His tenure as the head of the Catholic Church was marked by a commitment to addressing pressing societal issues such as climate change, corporate greed, and the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.
From the onset of his papacy in 2013, Pope Francis aimed to bridge the gap between the church and its followers, emphasizing that priests should be servants of the community and championing the idea of “a poor church for the poor.” This vision guided him throughout his leadership and even influenced the simplicity of the rituals at his own funeral.
Humility and compassion in action
In exploring the poignant moments that exemplify his humility and dedication to reforming the papacy, here are five significant instances from his time as pope:
- Washing the feet of female inmates: In a groundbreaking departure from tradition, Pope Francis washed the feet of 12 inmates at the Casal del Marmo youth detention center in Rome in 2013. This symbolic act, which mirrors Jesus’ humility towards his disciples, drew attention for including two young women and individuals of different faiths, prompting criticism from some traditionalists. Vatican spokesperson Federico Lombardi explained that including the girls was essential to convey a universal message of love.
- Kissing the feet of South Sudanese leaders: During a significant spiritual retreat at the Vatican in 2019, Pope Francis kissed the feet of South Sudanese leaders, a gesture aimed at promoting peace amidst the country’s civil unrest. President Salva Kirr reflected on the moment, describing it as a “turning point for us, the peace partners.” The pope later visited South Sudan in 2023, urging the implementation of a peace agreement and accountability from leaders regarding corruption.
- Donating a custom-made Lamborghini: In 2017, Lamborghini gifted Pope Francis a bespoke Huracán RWD sports car, adorned in the Vatican’s colors. Instead of keeping the luxury vehicle, he chose to bless it and auction it, raising approximately €809,375 for charitable causes, including rebuilding efforts in Iraq. This decision echoed his preference for modest transportation, often rejecting lavish vehicles like the Popemobile, which he humorously referred to as a “sardine-can.”
- Appointing the first woman to lead a major Vatican office: In January 2023, the pope made history by appointing Sister Simona Brambilla as prefect of the Dicastery for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life. This landmark decision demonstrated his commitment to elevating women’s roles within the Catholic Church, complemented by other measures allowing women to serve as lectors and acolytes, though he refrained from endorsing their ordination as priests.
- Bringing refugees to the Vatican: During a visit to the Greek island of Lesbos in 2016, Pope Francis took a profound step by bringing 12 refugees back to Rome, representing a significant act of compassion amidst the European refugee crisis. In a powerful statement, he remarked that this act was merely “a drop of water in the sea,” yet it aimed to shift perceptions regarding refugees and migrants. His efforts to advocate for these vulnerable populations began with his first papal trip to Lampedusa in 2013, following the tragic deaths of migrants attempting to cross the Mediterranean.
A legacy of love and reform
Throughout his papacy, Pope Francis exemplified a profound commitment to humility and service. His actions resonated deeply, creating ripples of change that encouraged dialogue and compassion within the Church and beyond. As he often reminded those around him, even the smallest gestures could lead to significant impacts, fostering a spirit of love and unity in a world often marked by division and strife.