On Easter Monday, the whole world was shocked by the news of the death of Pope Francis.  Because of that, social media was overflowing with memories about the pontiff.  What struck me was a picture of Francis with the caption: “Smile even in the midst of pain and suffering.”  Pope Franci​​​​s frequently emphasized the importance of finding joy and hope even in the face of pain and suffering.  He encouraged individuals to embrace vulnerability and see suffering as an opportunity for growth and encounter with God. He suggests that a smile, even in the midst of difficult times, can be a powerful way to find meaning and connection.
​
Yes, we mourn the loss of such a good servant of God.  But the message of Easter reminds us that God is with us.  Christ is risen from the dead.  The tomb is empty and as I have said in my Easter homily, this a powerful reminder that the risen Lord’s presence is not tied to a physical body, but in His spirit and His friendship with us. 
​
This weekend, we hear the story of the disciples being locked in the upper room.  But as soon as Christ breathed the Spirit upon them, they went out to boldly proclaim Easter in their lives and in love.  I believe Pope Francis was also thinking of that event every time he invited us to go into the peripheries to bring Christ’s mercy and love.  Perhaps that is how we can honor Francis to continue to build a church that is inclusive, embracing and welcoming everyone as brothers and sisters in Christ.  In other words, Pope Francis challenged us to live as Jesus lived!
​
Let us join the whole Church in praying for the repose of Pope Francis’s soul and in giving thanks for the gift of his life and faithful ministry.  Let us also ask the Holy Spirit to guide the Church in this time of prayer and discernment in choosing the next successor of Peter.  And let us entrust the Church to the maternal care of Mary, the Mother of the Risen Christ and the Mother of the Church.