Fearful Yet Overjoyed: Mourning a Pope, Trusting the Spirit

Today has been a deeply difficult day for me, personally. It’s hard to believe, but I’ve barely picked up my phone, glanced at social media only once or twice, and haven’t even turned on the TV. I have not answered many text messages or phone call. Instead, I’ve kept to my priestly duties and prayed—nearly without ceasing—for a Pope I truly loved.

I think everyone has a Pope they grow especially close to, someone they feel a deep affection for. For me, that Pope was Francis. I was blessed not only to meet him in person and shake his hand, but even more so to witness his humility and his genuine love for the people of God. He never seemed overly concerned with the prestige of the papacy—his heart was always with the people.

Pope John Paul II was one of the world’s great philosophers. Pope Benedict XVI, a brilliant theologian. And Pope Francis? He was one of the greatest caregivers our world has ever known. He cared not just for creation, but for all of God’s people—regardless of their status, income, education, race, or creed. He made space for everyone, and in doing so, he reflected the boundless mercy of Christ.

Qi (Chinese, 1950–), Do Not Hold On to Me, 2013.

The Gospel reading from today’s Mass—Monday in the Octave of Easter—feels especially fitting. Like Mary Magdalene and the other Mary at the tomb, I find myself fearful, yet overjoyed. I’m fearful of what lies ahead for our world and our Church in the coming weeks as we await a new Pope. I’m fearful that the next leader of our Church might not carry the same tender heart or commitment to the poor and vulnerable. I wonder what direction the Church might take.

And yet… I am also filled with joy.

I’m overjoyed that Pope Francis celebrated Easter Sunday surrounded by the universal Church he so dearly loved and gave his life for. I’m overjoyed that he returned to the Father’s house during this sacred, grace-filled week of the Octave of Easter. I’m overjoyed by the countless ways the Holy Spirit worked in and through him—not only during his papacy, but throughout his life as Fr. Jorge Mario Bergoglio, and later as bishop and cardinal. I’m overjoyed that the world and our Church were blessed by such a good and holy man.

Now, as I sit in prayerful reflection for someone I only truly knew through his writings, his gestures, and his witness, I take comfort in Jesus’ words from today’s Gospel: “Be not afraid.” I have seen firsthand the power of the Holy Spirit in my own life and in the world around me. And I trust that God continues to guide His Church—always.

Pope Francis, my mentor and friend from afar, may the angels lead you into paradise. May the martyrs come to welcome you and guide you into the holy city, the new and eternal Jerusalem. Rest now in the peace of Christ. Thank you for all that you have done for our Church and the world.

Peace,

Fr. Fata celebrating Holy Thursday - The Mass of the Lord's Supper at St. Luke, Boardman - 2016

N.B. Today, April 21st, 2025, I am also remembering another great mentor of mine—Fr. Joseph Fata—who would have celebrated his 83rd birthday today. Fr. Fata passed away on August 1st, 2017, after a courageous 15-year battle with cancer. I can’t help but wonder what the conversation between Fr. Fata and Pope Francis must be like today in the Heavenly Kingdom.