To many people, Monday, April 21, will be a day they will never be able to forget.
Pope Francis was declared dead at 7:35 a.m. (local time) due to a stroke that was followed by an irreversible cardiac arrest. Francis, who was Pope for 12 years, died at the age of 88.
Before his passing, Francis had suffered from double pneumonia. He had various visits to the hospital. After his health had improved, he made his first appearance at Saint Peter’s Square during a special jubilee Mass for the sick and health workers on Sunday, making it his first appearance at the Vatican after leaving the hospital.
Pope Francis’ teachings left an impact on people’s lives. Yamila Trevino, a Youth Group leader at Saint Michael’s Catholic church, had the privilege to go to a World Youth Day and see Pope Francis.
“Pope Francis had so many beautiful teachings, from treating everyone with dignity and welcoming them with open arms to focusing on helping others instead of ourselves,” said Trevino. Trevino’s community loved Pope Francis’ teachings.
Although there are people who didn’t really approve or like 233his teachings, Pope Francis never really got bothered by what people said. Trevino’s favorite teaching from Pope Francis was “Practice what you preach.” Trevino also said that she really liked that teaching because he lived that message.
Many people loved Pope Francis and he seemed to get along with everyone he met. But there was one special thing that he really enjoyed doing, and that was youth.
One thing that Pope Francis was known for was spending time with youth. Pope Francis directed around three World Youth Days. There were also times where the Pope would make public appearances and give children the blessing.
“As someone who works with youth, he inspired me to remember that there is a place for EVERYONE in the world and particularly in the Catholic Church; a message we often forget,” said Trevino.
The last World Youth Day took place in Lisbon, Portugal, where 1.5 million young people from all over the world reunited to see and hear the teachings of Pope Francis.
The next World Youth Day will take place in Seoul, Korea in the Year 2027.
Sixteen days after the passing of Pope Francis, the Conclave gathered. Not even 48 hours had passed when white smoke came out of the Sistine Chapel.
The new Pope, Leon XIV, was chosen to be the new Pope. He will also be leading the 2025 youth pilgrimage and the 2027 World Youth Day.
Although Pope Francis has passed, he will always be remembered in many people’s hearts, and his teaching will be something that won’t be forgotten.
