Students, Staff Reflect on the Legacy of Pope Francis

Around the world, members of the Catholic Church and others are mourning the death Monday of Pope Francis. 

For those with connections to Jesuit institutions, Pope Francis holds a special place. As the first Jesuit pope, his papacy often seemed like an expression of Ignatian spirituality and his example a way for those unfamiliar to grasp the basics of the Jesuit way of proceeding. Throughout his tenure leading the Church, Francis was steadfast in his commitment to the poor and marginalized as well as his call to care for the environment. For many young people of all faiths, his example was inspiring — in 2013, the Rockhurst University community celebrated his selection and in 2015, the University hosted a public watch party during his address to the U.S. Congress during a visit to the United States.

“He impacted many individuals both inside and outside the Church with his beautiful wisdom and left and astonishing legacy for future generations,” said Rosa Rivera. “He spoke up for a variety of issues in a peaceful manner. He wanted to serve the Catholic Church, not rule it.”

For another student, Megan Lewis, Francis’ example was a living testament to the power — and the necessity — of humility and forgiveness.

“Pope Francis’s emphasis on mercy has impacted me and my relationships with God, family, friends and self,” she said. “He taught that God’s mercy is boundless, extending to everyone for everything, and that we are called to imitate God’s mercy, striving to forgive others and ourselves. I try to forgive and forget rather than hold grudges, remembering that we are all human and aren’t perfect like God.”

On Thursday, the University invited its campus and members of the community to a Mass in Francis’ honor. During the service, sophomore Aidan Cutter shared a reflection on how Francis provided the example of simplicity and compassion that inspired him to seek a college environment where service to others is an integral part.

“The Jesuit ideals of service was one of the main things that brought me here, because the very service that Pope Francis was so adamant about is so present here at this campus,” he said.

Anna Muenchen, interim director of Campus Ministry, said she learned the news of Francis’ passing at about 3:30 a.m. Monday, on her way to the Denver airport to return to Kansas City after celebrating Easter at Regis University. In that moment and in the days since, she said she spent time reflecting on what the pontiff meant to her personally, to the spiritual work she does with students at Rockhurst, and to the world.

“The words of Pope Francis himself describe the legacy and understanding of his definition of faith that has been a pillar in my life: ‘There’s no better way of explaining happiness than to make someone happy’ — he is saying there's no better way to explain your faith than to live it,” she said.