Pope Francis - The Pope of the Heart

By Sr. Walburga Ballhausen CPS – Rome, May 2, 2025

“Buona sera!”
With just two simple words and a gentle wave from the loggia of St. Peter’s Basilica on March 13, 2013, Pope Francis instantly disarmed the world. “Brothers and sisters, good evening!” he said—softly, humbly, as if greeting old friends. It was in that moment that many of us knew: this was no ordinary pontificate. This was a man of the people. A pastor. A father. A friend.

Pope Francis 

Who is Pope Francis for me? He was, and will always remain, the Pope of the heart.

From day one, his pontificate was marked by a refreshing simplicity and deep human warmth. Dressed in plain white, he appeared almost shy—but his presence was powerful. His humility wasn’t performative; it was the very essence of his being. That modesty remained a steady undercurrent throughout his twelve years as the Bishop of Rome.

“Please. Thank you. Excuse me.”
Three little words. That’s what he offered to young people on many occasions—words that can build bridges and heal wounds. Pope Francis didn’t preach abstract ideals; he offered tools for real human relationships. Practical wisdom rooted in Gospel love. In his words, there was always tenderness, and a desire to bring people closer—to each other, and to God.

“Who am I to judge?”
Perhaps one of the most quoted lines of his pontificate. In that single question, he opened the doors of the Church a little wider. He didn’t dilute doctrine, but he humanized it. He reminded us that everyone—everyone, everyone—is welcome in the Church, because every person is made in the image of God. His message was clear: the Church must be a home for all.

Sr. Walburga CPS

“Avanti, con gioia!” – “Forward, with joy!”
Even in moments of weakness or illness, Pope Francis exuded strength—not the strength of power, but of hope. When he left the hospital in June 2023 after surgery, his words were simple yet stirring: “Forward, with joy!” He taught us that joy is not the absence of suffering, but the presence of love, faith, and purpose.

“Pray for me.”
It was the phrase he repeated most, whether meeting heads of state or young pilgrims. “I pray for you – please pray for me.” He carried the burdens of the world, yet never ceased to rely on the humble force of prayer. He loved the Rosary, often praying before the image of Mary at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, right up until his final days.

A Pope Who Walked With Us
His last Easter appearance in the white popemobile, smiling and waving to the cheering crowds, is etched in my memory. He was fragile, yes, but so alive—alive with faith and love. In life, he walked among us. In death, he walks before us—a shepherd who led by example, not by command.

Pope Francis’s life was a radiant witness to humility, mercy, and the joy of the Gospel. His deep care for the poor, the marginalized, and for creation itself has forever shaped the Church’s path. His voice for justice, peace, compassion, and ecological responsibility will continue to echo through our prayers and our actions.

We miss him—his smile, his surprises, his fearless love.

But we carry him in our hearts.

“I pray for you. Please, pray for me.”