In a reflective interview, Vatican foreign minister Archbishop Paul Gallagher recounts the late Pope's commitment to advocate for the powerless, even when advised against continuing his vigorous schedule.
Pope Francis Remained Resolute in His Final Years, Says Archbishop
Pope Francis Remained Resolute in His Final Years, Says Archbishop
Archbishop Paul Gallagher reveals Pope Francis preferred to "die with his boots on" rather than slow down as his health declined.
Pope Francis, who passed away at 88 after battling health issues that resulted in a hospitalization for pneumonia, chose to remain active in his final years, according to Archbishop Gallagher. The Archbishop, who has served as the Vatican's foreign minister since 2014, shared insights from an exclusive BBC interview highlighting how the Pope was driven by a desire to create positive change for the marginalized.
Gallagher described Pope Francis as a compassionate leader who was aware of the struggles faced by many. "He was very much the voice of the voiceless," Gallagher said, emphasizing the Pope's determination to address contentious issues despite opposition. He recalled Pope Francis's resilience in traveling to the Central African Republic in 2015, even when his advisers cautioned against the trip due to safety concerns. "He just said 'well I'm going and if nobody wants to come, fine, I'll go on my own'," Gallagher reflected, revealing a deep respect for the Pope's courage.
Throughout his papacy, Pope Francis engaged actively with global communities, advocating for migrants and vulnerable families caught in conflict. Notably, his inaugural trip outside Rome was to meet migrants on Italy’s Lampedusa island—a testament to his commitment to uplifting the marginalized. Archbishop Gallagher noted that Pope Francis had not taken a holiday in over 66 years while serving in the Vatican, as he felt a profound responsibility to help those suffering.
While acknowledging his role within the church's hierarchy, Gallagher conveyed that the Pope often preferred informal gatherings with everyday individuals and youth over formal engagements with dignitaries. He highlighted the Pope's intent to dismantle barriers between the church and the public, allowing him to be viewed as more relatable.
As the world mourns the loss of Pope Francis, whose legacy is marked by humanity and accessibility, more than 250,000 mourners are reported to have paid tribute during his lying-in-state at St. Peter's Basilica. Pope Francis’s funeral will be broadcasted live, ensuring that followers worldwide can honor his impactful life and work.
