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���������� Reflects on Pope Francis

As the Catholic College of the South, ���������� and its community continues to reflect on the life and death of Pope Francis. After a blessed Easter Sunday, in the early morning hours of the second day of the Easter Octave, we were met with the sorrowful news about the death of Pope Francis. The passing of our Holy Father is a solemn and contemplative time for all Catholics, made especially poignant during this most supreme celebration of the resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. 

The college Chancellor, Abbot Placid expressed the sentiments of many, stating, “Easter is a blessed time for Pope Francis to complete his service and go home to the Lord. The Church was blessed that Pope Francis imparted what was to be his final blessing to the Church and the world on Easter Sunday. Our monastic and college communities join in praying for Pope Francis and in giving thanks for his life of service to the Church as a consecrated religious, priest, bishop and, ultimately, as chief pastor of Christ’s flock.”

As the Church enters a period of transition, attention turns to the election of a new pope. The process of electing a new pope is under the guidance of the Holy Spirit and in the hands of the College of Cardinals, who will convene a conclave to discern and elect the next supreme pontiff. This sacred process is rooted in prayer and tradition dating back to St. Peter, the first Bishop of Rome, ensuring that the election is made with wisdom and the guidance of Divine Providence.

“May God, who provides for His Church in times of joy and sorrow, exultation and difficulty, guide the Cardinals as they discern and elect a new Pope,” said Dr. Thierfelder, President of ����������. “Please join the Abbey community in praying daily for all the leaders of the Church and especially for the one Cardinal who will be elected and called to lead the Church.” 

Abbey student, Hannah Martin, shares, “Pope Francis exemplified how to engage the entire community with a spirit of paternal love. While his approach was notably modern, his life offers insights into what it means to live as a Christian. As a community, we unite in prayer and gratitude for his life and legacy.”

As the world mourns the loss of Pope Francis, his legacy of compassion, humility, and service will continue to inspire countless individuals and communities around the world.