A Merciful Shepherd: A Sister’s Reflection on the Legacy of Pope Francis

A personal testimony of faith, leadership, and the enduring impact of Pope Francis on religious life and global justice.

By Sr. Maureen Ogundeph, Sacramentine Sisters of Bergamo

One of my most cherished memories of Pope Francis is witnessing his profound humility and unwavering commitment to the marginalized. His presence radiated a deep love for humanity, and his words carried the weight of genuine concern for the forgotten and the vulnerable.

When he was first elected pope, I felt a surge of hope. His choice of the name “Francis” signaled a new era—one rooted in simplicity, service, and a radical embrace of the Gospel. His leadership became a call to return to the essence of faith: love, mercy, and justice.

I have been blessed to meet Pope Francis in person twice. Each encounter was a moment of grace, a reminder of the privilege of serving in the Church. His presence was deeply personal, his words filled with wisdom, and his demeanor a reflection of Christ’s love.

As a Sacramentine Sister of Bergamo, where Jesus in the Eucharist is the center of our life, Pope Francis’ emphasis on Eucharistic devotion and service to the poor has profoundly shaped my ministry. His call to live the Gospel authentically has strengthened my resolve to foster spiritual growth and community engagement.

His writings on mercy—especially Evangelii Gaudium and Fratelli Tutti—have deeply resonated with me. His insistence that the Church must be a “field hospital” for the wounded has reinforced my commitment to holistic community development and empowerment.

Pope Francis elevated the role of religious sisters, recognizing their invaluable contributions to the Church and society. His support for the World Women Observatory, which he proposed at Assisi, demonstrated his belief in the power of women’s voices and leadership.

His most enduring legacy is his unwavering commitment to mercy, justice, and inclusion. He reminded the world that faith must be lived through action, that the Church must stand with the poor, and that love must be the foundation of all we do.

I will carry forward his message by continuing to empower women globally, fostering discernment and spiritual growth, and ensuring that the Eucharist remains at the heart of our mission. His vision for the World Women Observatory will continue to inspire my work in amplifying the voices of women worldwide.

The Church and the world should remember Pope Francis as a shepherd who walked among his people, a leader who embraced the forgotten, and a prophet who called for justice and peace.

If I had to choose one word to describe his legacy, it would be this: Merciful Shepherd.