VATICAN: Cardinal Re Honours Pope Francis as a Self-Giving Shepherd, Franciscan in Spirit
Sr. Jecinter Antoinette Okoth, FSSA
On Saturday, April 26, 2025, St. Peter’s Square became the focal point for a global farewell to Pope Francis. Presiding over the funeral Mass, His Eminence Giovanni Cardinal Battista Re, Dean of the College of Cardinals, lauded the late pontiff as a “self-giving shepherd” who embodied the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi, a reflection evident in the Papal name he chose upon his election.
In his homily to thousands of mourners, including over 200 cardinals, numerous heads of state, such as U.S. President Donald Trump, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and dignitaries from around the world, Cardinal Re highlighted Pope Francis’ unwavering commitment to humility, inclusivity, and service to the marginalized, noting his efforts to bridge divides and promote peace.
“The decision to take the name Francis immediately appeared to indicate the pastoral plan and style on which he wanted to base his pontificate, seeking inspiration from the spirit of Saint Francis of Assisi,” Cardinal Re narrated, highlighting that the late Pope consistently upheld his distinctive pastoral approach, characterized by humility, direct engagement, and a deep commitment to inclusivity.
His authentic and approachable demeanour, the Dean of the College of Cardinals said, has left a lasting impact on Church governance, fostering on a Church that is more open, empathetic, and responsive to the needs of all people.
“The Pope established direct contact with individuals and people, eager to be close to everyone, with a marked attention to those in difficulty, giving himself without measure, especially to the marginalised, the least among us,” the Cardinal said to thousands of mourners at St. Peter’s Square, adding, “He was a Pope among the people, with an open heart towards everyone and attentive to the signs of the times and what the Holy Spirit was awakening in the Church.”
Emphasizing the remarkable and intense 12 years of Petrine Ministry of the late Pope Francis, the Cardinal acknowledged that the extraordinary outpouring of affection following the passing of the Holy Father underscores the profound impact of his pontificate on hearts and minds worldwide.
Even though the Pope suffered in his last moments said the Cardinal, “The final image we have of him, which will remain etched in our memory… when on Easter Sunday, Pope Francis, despite his serious health problems, wanted to give us his blessing from the balcony of Saint Peter’s Basilica. He then came down to this Square to greet the large crowd gathered for the Easter Mass while riding in the open-top Popemobile.”
Pope Francis remained steadfast in his commitment to selfless service, emulating the example of Christ, the Good Shepherd, who laid down His life for His flock.With unwavering strength and tranquillity, he continued to shepherd the Church, embodying the Gospel principle that “it is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35).His life and ministry were a testament to the belief that true fulfillment is found in self-giving love and service to others.
According to the Cardinal, evangelisation was the guiding principle of Pope Francis leadership. “With a clear missionary vision, he spread the joy of the Gospel, which was the title of his first Apostolic Exhortation, Evangelii gaudium. It is a joy that fills the hearts of all those who entrust themselves to God with confidence and hope.”
Besides, the Pope’s mission was guided by the conviction that “the Church is a home for all, a home with its doors always open.”
“He often used the image of the Church as a “field hospital” after a battle in which many were wounded,” Cardinal Re narrated and continued, “a Church determined to take care of the problems of people and the great anxieties that tear the contemporary world apart; a Church capable of bending down to every person, regardless of their beliefs or condition, and healing their wounds.”
The Cardinal emphasized further that the late Pope favoured refugees and displaced persons and constantly worked among the poor. Additionally, “Pope Francis always placed the Gospel of mercy at the centre, repeatedly emphasising that God never tires of forgiving us. He always forgives, whatever the situation might be of the person who asks for forgiveness and returns to the right path.”
In conclusion, Cardinal Re noted that as Pope Francis often used to ask the people of God to pray for him, it was now the time the faithful reversed that request, asking him to intercede for the Church, for Rome, and the whole world from heaven.
“Dear Francis, we now ask you to pray for us. May you bless the Church, bless Rome, and bless the whole world from heaven as you did last Sunday from the balcony of this Basilica in a final embrace with all the people of God, but also embrace humanity that seeks the truth with a sincere heart and holds high the torch of hope,” the Cardinal concluded.
Following his wishes, Pope Francis was laid to rest in a simple tomb at the Basilica of Saint Mary Major, reflecting his lifelong dedication to modesty and spiritual devotion.
