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Dear Michelle,
"When we learn to serve, our every gesture of attention and care, every expression of tenderness, every work of mercy becomes a reflection of God’s love. So in this way, let all of us – each one of us – continue Jesus’ work in the world.” – From Pope Francis' Homily on October 20, 2024
As members of the Conclave gathered in Rome, many Catholics, like myself, took time to reflect on the legacy of the late Pope Francis. Being educated in the Jesuit tradition, I was very proud to see the first Holy Father from the Jesuit order.
I am grateful that Oregon Public Broadcasting's Think Out Loud opened a spot for me to comment on the passing of the Pope (listen to the May 2 broadcast, "The legacy of Pope Francis"). Throughout the segment, I thought of the Pope's smile and how his example of being like Jesus was remembered throughout the world. From Pope Francis' acts of humility in washing the feet of inmates to the sharing of joy with comedians, he sought to humanize his role in the spirit of service of Jesus, not in power. The late Pope sought to have the faithful reflect more on how we live out our lives. How do we judge less and bless more? How do we show love and kindness to those who are poor or running from danger?
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