Following the death of Pope Francis, America’s editor at large, James Martin. S.J., wrote a reflection (posted online) on the influence of Francis’ Jesuit formation on his papacy, particularly in his spiritual language, his closeness to the poor and his emphasis on discernment in the life of the church. “Overall, Francis entered the papacy as a Jesuit, governed as one and died as one,” Father Martin wrote. “To understand him was to remember that he was a Jesuit. And to misunderstand him was to forget he was one.” America’s readers offered their own thoughts on Francis’ Jesuit vocation in the online comments section.
Thank you for this concise and beautiful explanation of Pope Francis as a Jesuit. There is no doubt that he touched many lives around the world, and your words put his actions more clearly into focus. My wish and hope is that we can continue to build on his legacy. For me and many others, Pope Francis will always stand out for his compassion, his mercy and his commitment to the teachings of Jesus.
Marie Alessi
I grieve for the loss of such a good man and leader but pray for his soul and his help from heaven. While he was indeed a Jesuit, it seemed he also took on some Franciscan modes, including a connection with the environment and environmentalism. I can identify with that as a Carmelite, as both Franciscans and Carmelites desire “littleness.” Something that struck me is that while he was archbishop, he used to get the newspaper before boarding the bus (or train) every day, then at the end of the week he would return the rubber bands to the newspaper man. That is a Carmelite “little way of environmental healing”—no action too small when done out of love because, as Mother Teresa said, our love makes it infinite.
Lynn Vincentnathan
My family lived in Buenos Aires for several years. My father’s name was Francis. I chose Francis as my confirmation name. The gender difference didn’t matter to me; St. Francis of Assisi was my patron saint. Since I was a rather stubborn 10-year-old, the nuns and my parents were not about to argue with me! When the election results were announced and Pope Francis’ chosen name was revealed, I was overcome and cried tears of joy. His preaching throughout his papacy brought me closer to the Catholic Church than I have been since childhood. His kindness and mercy made even non-Catholics—and certainly those of us who have fallen away—feel loved, accepted, forgiven and blessed. I thank the Lord for this pope coming during my lifetime, and I know in my heart that we will have another St. Francis. Thank you for this thoughtful and helpful tribute to our beloved pope.
Sue Erdman
I remember thinking, “He gets it” when I first heard Pope Francis speak. For years after, I drove around with a bumper sticker that said “This Pope Gives Me Hope.” In 2023 I became a member of the Catholic Church. I will always remember him, and I am grateful for the spark he ignited in my heart.
Hilary Barboza
The choice to follow Christ’s poor is one of the most difficult choices to make, while also being the path that can bring one closest to him. Those who walk that path go through experiences that often escape language in their alienation from others. We are so fortunate to have those who exemplify this love of God and obedience to his will in this particular way—as outlined in the Spiritual Exercises—as models of discipleship for us to follow.
Edward Michel Gomeau
Of all the praise and criticism I have read about Pope Francis, this beautiful piece best expresses who Francis was and why he was as he was. It has been a privilege to live during his papacy. I knew the moment he came out on the balcony on that March 13 and humbly asked the people to pray for him, to bless him before he blessed them, that we had a special gift from the Holy Spirit.
Teresita Scully
A common comment that I’ve heard about Francis since his passing: “He made me uncomfortable the way he spoke.” My response is always: “That was his job, especially as a Jesuit.” We often want to be comfortable in our thoughts. To be uncomfortable just goes against the grain. To grow in our faith requires our being uncomfortable. Thank you, Francis.
Stephen Healy
