When Pope Francis was elected Head of the Catholic Church, he stepped out onto the balcony of St Peter’s Basilica and humbly asked all the faithful watching — both in person and online — as well as millions of people of other faiths and none at all, to “pregate su di me” — “pray over me.” To me, this is the greatest tribute to Francis: at the most significant moment of his life, before he offered his blessing to the world, he asked for our prayers. He was an exceptional Pope and an even lovelier human being. Though he led the Catholic Church, he served the whole world. He didn’t see people by colour, height, nationality, or status — he saw everyone simply as human beings. And that is what I will always remember him for. “Let us learn to live with kindness, to love everyone, even when they do not love us.” — Pope Francis Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen.
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