I remember the day Pope Francis was elected. The staff at Franciscan Renewal Center was having an ordinary day, an ordinary weekly team meeting. One of the younger members of the team was paying more attention to his cellphone than to the string of departmental reports when he suddenly stood up, held out his phone and shouted “We have a new Pope...!”
Of course, our meeting ended right there as everyone scrambled to peer over his shoulder at the tiny screen, peppering him with questions. “When did it happen?” “Where is he from?” “What name has he chosen...?”
We waited together for answers, learning that he was from South America, that he was a Jesuit and... “He chose the name FRANCIS!” Then someone asked, “Which Francis...?”
Honestly, at that time, I didn't know there were more than one Saint Francis. (I had a lot to learn.) But waiting with everyone to learn that, indeed, that he had chosen Saint Francis of Assisi—OUR Saint Francis—was truly thrilling. We ended our meeting with excitement and joy, wondering what it would all mean. I think I speak for many people when I say we were never disappointed.
These days, much is changed. The first thing I do when I wake up is to check the news on my phone. The first thing I saw today was the news of Pope Francis' death. I was stunned, not understanding, not wanting to believe. I made my Franciscan profession shortly before he was elected. I have read many of his letters, instructions and guidelines. I have the Vatican website in my bookmarks. I have discussed, taught, shared and explored his thoughts and ideas along with many other “people of good will”. He has always seemed present, like a good friend watching over our efforts, joys, struggles and choices.
Today begins a series of formal rites and rituals that help process the passing of a Pope into eternal life. We know God's faithfulness. We are sure of the words “Well done, good and faithful servant!” Our Pope Francis will join the Church Triumphant in advocacy, intercession and the outpouring of blessings. For our part we will continue working in the immediate world. As Secular Franciscans we will continue to respond to our vocation to bring the Gospel to life in the world, “that they may see the good that we do and give glory to God.”
Today, at the start of the joyous Easter Season, we are challenged to reflect on our mission. Have we embraced the call of the Gospel? Have we chosen the gift of unity in peace that is Church? Can we truly call our neighbors brother and sister? Do we love our fraternity...?
As long as we live and breathe, our joys and our challenges will be difficult to separate. Both will ask us for our personal commitment to try and try again, “to live in faithful hope...”, to believe that Christ indeed is King, source and destiny for all humanity. As we wait now for our Church to pray, discern and choose a new Pope, my Easter wish for us all has sharpened in focus and annealed in its strength. In the days ahead, may God bless us all with pace et bene.
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