Written by: John Patrick Mancini '05 Vice Principal - Mission and Formation Loyola High School

On Easter Monday, our Catholic community—and people of goodwill around the world—mourned the passing of Pope Francis. While his place in history as the first Jesuit Pope, holds special meaning for Jesuit institutions like ours, we know that Pope Francis would not want us to dwell on his legacy for its historical significance alone.

Twelve years ago, we celebrated his appointment as “one of our own.” Yet throughout his papacy, Francis remained humble and rooted in the belief that God’s mercy and grace are our greatest gifts. He never sought attention for himself, but rather invited the Church and the world to focus on compassion, dignity, and faith in God's unwavering presence, even in our darkest hours.

His commitment to the pastoral side of the Church—and his consistent reminders that no one is abandoned by God—defined his time as Pope. He taught us to value vulnerability in our relationship with God and to recognize the divine image in every human being.

During his time as our spiritual leader, many stories circulated that captured the heart of Pope Francis. Two in particular have always stayed with me.

The first is the story of a young boy who, during a public audience, approached Pope Francis in tears. The boy had recently lost his father and was overcome with emotion as he asked the Pope if his dad, an atheist, would be in heaven. Francis embraced the boy and gently told him that God does not abandon good people. In that moment, Francis didn’t focus on theological debate—he focused on healing a young heart. His response reminds us that we are called not to be gatekeepers of faith, but companions on each other’s journeys. We are here to extend grace, not judgment.

The second story is simpler but equally profound. In an interview, Pope Francis admitted that he sometimes fell asleep while praying. The interviewer asked if that was acceptable, and Francis responded that not only was it acceptable, but it actually pleased God—like a child falling asleep in their father's arms. That image has stayed with me. It reminds us that our relationship with God does not require perfection, but presence. Even in our most unguarded, human moments, God is delighted simply by our nearness.

I have lived through the leadership of three Popes: John Paul II, who stood firm in the face of political opposition; Benedict XVI, who illuminated the intellectual depths of our faith; and now, Pope Francis, who showed us the beauty of humility and the power of gentleness. Each of them shaped the Church, but Francis showed us that our worth is not based on accomplishments. It is rooted in our very being—created in the image and likeness of God, deeply loved, and never alone.

As a school community rooted in Jesuit values, let us carry Pope Francis’s legacy forward—not just in memory, but in action. Let us choose kindness, lead with compassion, and see God’s presence in the ordinary.

Let us be more like Pope Francis.

Like Francis, let us ensure that our actions reflect our Ignatian identity. Let us speak gently and listen more. Let us welcome those on the margins, offer comfort before criticism, and seek to understand rather than to judge. Let us remember that even the smallest acts of mercy—offering a listening ear, showing patience, or praying with a sincere heart—can be sacred.

In living this way, we not only honor Pope Francis—we reflect the love of the God he served so faithfully. May we be a community where every student, teacher, and staff member feels seen, valued, and deeply loved.

May his memory continue to guide us. And may his example inspire us to walk with greater humility, deeper faith, and hearts wide open to others.