by Dr. Kristina “Tina” Campbell
The world pauses to mourn the death of Pope Francis, the people’s Pope, who reminded us that compassion is our strongest power, that simplicity is a way of life, that education is intended for understanding, and that immigrants are our family.
He walked freely among the people, and I have the feeling that he was probably a lot of fun. As a Jesuit, he earned the highest possible education, and he used his knowledge and intellect to promote relationships and peace…never to gain power over others.
He shunned the gilded grandeur of the Vatican’s accommodations, and lived in a simple apartment by himself. He did his own cooking. He didn’t want a big deal burial. I wish he had had a dog.
Amidst the pomp and circumstance, Francis somehow managed to embody a ministry of service, relationship, and dedication to the concepts of justice and mercy. He took no pleasure in name calling or ranting, instead he declared through his words and through his actions the simple and straight forward values of peace, welcome, and relationship.
It seems noteworthy that Francis gave his last blessing on Easter Sunday, symbolically reminding us that we are the embodiment of the resurrection and we have responsibility for bringing the Gospel to new life.
I did not always agree with Pope Francis, and yet I loved him. I loved his warm embrace of his flock and his brazen call for justice. Although there is still work to do in Roman Catholic tradition in areas like the ordination of women and LGBTQ rights, Francis was moving in the right direction. It is my fervent prayer that his legacy of progress will continue.
Francis reminds me that ministry is not a title or a garb laden with doctoral bars, rather it is a call to the spirit and life of service. Ministry is often quiet and humble. Ministry is about embracing the people around us, loving them, and bringing a message of hope.
Pope Francis’ memory is truly a blessing, his work on this earth is completed, and we will take a moment to mourn. We will utter the words “well done, good and faithful servant, well done,” and then in true tribute to Francis, we will take up the yoke of servanthood that is based on justice and love.