Paul Juma Makhandia

The world recently mourned and bide fare well to the Roman Pontiff, Pope Francis whose life was not only defined by grace but also by simplicity and humility. His funeral was attended by thousands of all walks of the world-heads of states, diplomats and vendors who stood along the road -to bide him farewell for his inclusive nature to all and profound simplicity and humility which spoke loud to the world.

In 2013 when he began his Pontificate, Jorge Mario Bergoglio from Argentina chose the name Francis after St. Francis of Assisi, a simple servant of God also known as the Saint of the poor. From the onset, it was evident that Pope Francis identified himself with the poor, the marginalized. Throughout his Pontificate, he chose to reside in a guesthouse, Casa Santa Marta, over a Papal Palace. He rode in a simple Ford Focus instead of a Limousine. He also preferred a plain white cassock to a red traditional Pontiff cape.

Pope Francis was a living testimony. Like Jesus in the Gospels, he washed and kissed the feet of prisoners, refugees and immigrants embracing all the destitutes and outcasts emphasizing on love and living together as a family, Gods people. He tirelessly emphasized on noble Christian values and human dignity, social justice and peace. His Papacy founded on the core values of compassion, mercy and communion.

His funeral service at St. Peters Square was parked by mourners-Catholics and non-Catholics, Christians and non-Christians. Believers and non-believers alike, young and old, a clear manifestation of his holy life. The Pontiff’s simple wooden coffin and simple liturgy was a real reflection of grace. He chose no gold or ostentatious displays. Many attested that he lived the Gospel, he lived what he preached.

Pope Francis legacy of shaping the face of the Church remains. He was such a great reformist and quite progressive and his positive impact felt. As a good shepherd he smelt the flock, he listened more than talking, judged less and embraced the wounded. The Italian greeting, “Bounasera Carissimi Fratelli e Sorelle”- translated in English as “Good-evening dear brothers and sisters”, Was always on his lips as the opening remark to the public. He always regarded himself as imperfect and would request for prayers and pardon from God.  This humility and openness drew millions to him.

As his burial rites concluded at the Basilica of St. Maria Major, bells in Rome toll not only for the demise of the Pope, but of a true shepherd who was always present to the flock and understood them. Forever, Pope Francis legacy of simplicity and humility remain.