Pope Francis, the 266th and current Pope of the Catholic Church, has been a beacon of hope and change for many believers around the world. His humble and compassionate approach to leadership has won the hearts of millions and continues to inspire people of all faiths. Recently, as thousands gathered to mourn the passing of one of the Vatican’s most beloved cardinals, the impact of Pope Francis’ leadership was felt by the mourners, with one stating that “Pope Francis has shifted attitudes and changed the church.”
The funeral proceedings for Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, who passed away at the age of 87, were held on July 13 at St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. The ceremony was attended by Pope Francis, along with numerous cardinals, bishops, and priests. But it was the presence of the mourners outside the Basilica that caught the attention. Among them was a woman who had come all the way from Argentina, the homeland of Pope Francis, to pay her respects to the late cardinal.
As she stood outside the Basilica, the woman expressed her admiration for Pope Francis and the changes he has brought to the Catholic Church. She said, “Pope Francis shifted attitudes. He has changed the church.” These words echoed the sentiments of many who have been positively impacted by the Pope’s leadership.
Since his election in 2013, Pope Francis has been a breath of fresh air in the Vatican. He has emphasized the need for the Catholic Church to be more inclusive and welcoming to all, regardless of their backgrounds or beliefs. Through his actions and words, he has shown the world that the church should be a place of love, mercy, and understanding, rather than judgment and exclusion.
One of the main ways in which Pope Francis has shifted attitudes is through his emphasis on social issues. He has been a vocal advocate for the poor and vulnerable, calling on governments and individuals to do more to alleviate poverty and inequality. His encyclical, “Laudato si’, on Care for Our Common Home”, has brought attention to the urgent need to address climate change and protect our planet. This has not only resonated with Catholics but also with people of other faiths and those who do not adhere to any religion.
In addition to his focus on social issues, Pope Francis has also made significant changes within the church itself. He has taken steps towards reforming the Vatican’s financial system, promoting transparency and accountability. He has also addressed the issue of sexual abuse within the church, implementing stricter guidelines and protocols to protect children and prevent future abuse.
Perhaps one of the most notable changes Pope Francis has brought to the church is his attitude towards the LGBTQ+ community. In 2013, he famously said, “Who am I to judge?” when asked about gay people in the church. This statement, along with his more inclusive approach, has been seen as a refreshing departure from the church’s traditional stance on homosexuality.
It is not just the Catholic community that has been impacted by Pope Francis’ leadership. He has been a strong advocate for interfaith dialogue and has shown a willingness to engage with leaders of other religions. This has helped to build bridges and promote unity among people of different faiths, especially in a world where there is often conflict and division.
As the mourners stood outside St. Peter’s Basilica, they paid tribute to the late cardinal, but also to the impact of Pope Francis’ leadership. Through his actions and words, he has truly changed the church and touched the lives of many. His humility, compassion, and commitment to social justice have inspired people to emulate his example and work towards building a better world.
In the words of the woman who stood outside the funeral proceedings, Pope Francis has shifted attitudes and changed the church. His message of love, mercy, and inclusivity has touched hearts and transformed lives, making him a beloved figure not just within the Catholic Church but also in the world at large. As we continue to mourn the loss of Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, we are reminded of the enduring impact of Pope Francis’ leadership and his ability to bring about positive change in the world.
