By Sr Patricia Speight, Franciscan Missionary Sisters for Africa
I remember feeling an overwhelming joy when Pope Francis was elected. It was especially moving for me because he chose the name of St. Francis of Assisi. At that moment, I knew we had the right Pope. Though I never had a personal encounter with him, I felt his presence deeply when he entered Croke Park. It was as if he were standing just beside me, and that closeness has stayed in my heart ever since.
My most cherished memory of Pope Francis is his visit to Ireland on August 25, 2018. I vividly remember rushing to Croke Park that evening, filled with joy and excitement to attend the Festival of Families. The stadium was packed to capacity—around 82,000 people were in attendance. There was an incredible atmosphere of unity, joy, and anticipation. Then, two days later on Sunday, my sister Mary and I traveled by bus to Phoenix Park in Dublin. As we entered, a deep sense of peace, joy, and togetherness enveloped us. The chorus of angels sang with such grace that it felt like heaven itself had opened above us. It was a truly sacred moment—God felt powerfully present, bringing love and hope to all who had gathered. When Pope Francis arrived to celebrate Mass, the crowd erupted in heartfelt cheers of welcome. Like Croke Park, Phoenix Park was also full, with reports later announcing that about 152,000 people were present. The event was beautifully coordinated by the Archdiocese of Dublin and the Government of Ireland.
Pope Francis profoundly shaped my vocation and ministry. As a Franciscan Missionary Sister for Africa, I am deeply inspired by his example. My life has always been rooted in the values of prayer, empathy, and a love for the poor and marginalized principles also championed by our Foundress, Mother Kevin. But Pope Francis deepened this calling. His style of servant leadership resonates deeply with me. Through his example, I see more clearly how Jesus lived serving with humility and compassion. My ministry, focused on healing and love for the forgotten and wounded, has been strengthened by Pope Francis’s vision.
One of his writings that touched me most deeply is The Joy of the Gospel. I loved how he emphasized the idea of a missionary Church one that goes out to the people, rather than waiting for them to come to us. He reminded us that our entire lives should be filled with joy, not sadness, and that this joy is a fundamental part of our calling.
Pope Francis also changed the way the world sees religious sisters. He never missed an opportunity to praise our work in healthcare, education, and our service to the poor and elderly. His words and actions told us that we are walking in the footsteps of Christ, and he reminded others to see us that way too. During his many travels, he always used his platform to highlight our contributions, and for that, I am deeply grateful.
I believe Pope Francis’s most lasting legacy is how he allowed the Holy Spirit to sweep through the Church. He transformed its way of thinking, making it less rigid and more loving. He called for a Church that is a beacon of hope, compassion, and mercy. That is, ultimately, what God asks of each of us. Pope Francis lived as a powerful example of Christ’s presence among us in the prisoner, the poor, the child, the sick, and the man lying on the street.
I will carry forward his message by living the Gospel through action. I will strive to bring the love, hope, and joy of Christ to those I serve especially the poor and within my religious community and to the postulants I help guide. It’s a responsibility and a joy to continue the mission he inspired in us all.
I believe the Church and the world will remember Pope Francis as a man of deep humility and simplicity. He chose to live modestly, walked when he could instead of using vehicles, and gave away the monthly allowances he received to those in need. He was deeply rooted in prayer and selflessly dedicated his life to the poor and marginalized. He was a Pope for the people-simple, loving, grounded, and compassionate.
In a phrase, Pope Francis was a man who lived the Joy of the Gospel. He was a voice for the voiceless, an advocate for a Church of the poor, and a loving servant with a compassionate leadership style that will be remembered for generations to come.