Pope Francis was more than a religious leader; he was a true example of devotion, commitment, and dedication to the message of Peace, Love, and Fraternity that he embraced and embodied. Twelve years ago, the world needed Francis—and we know well how much we need his words today.
In his 47 apostolic journeys, he called our attention to the peripheries, where the Faith he professed grows strongest, and to the need for Europe to look beyond its borders and beyond its traditional allies. This is not a religious matter, but a global defense of the values that define us.
In his four encyclicals, we clearly see the priorities of a papacy marked by both reflection and action: Faith, Fraternity and Social Friendship, and Love. For the first time, the Environment and the urgent need to protect our “Common Home” took center stage. He wrote, but above all, he lived what he preached.
Still, Francis’ example goes beyond his pontificate. He was an irreverent and non-conformist voice in the face of a world at war and in conflict—a world marked by inequality and injustice. He challenged all of us, truly all of us, regardless of our circumstances.
The world we live in today, filled with numerous and demanding challenges, needed Francis—his words and his example. He leaves behind a legacy we can and must study, but above all, strive to live by. He will be deeply missed.
Lidia Pereira
YEPP President
