Remembering Pope Francis: A Shepherd of Faith and Advocate for Educating the Whole Child

Pope Francis in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican on Feb. 18, 2015. (CNS/Reuters/Giampiero Sposito)

It is with deep sorrow and profound gratitude that we join the global Catholic community in mourning the passing of Pope Francis. His Holiness left this world on April 22, 2025, after years of faithful service as the 266th Pope of the Roman Catholic Church. His life was one of humility, compassion, and tireless dedication to the Gospel.

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, made history in many ways: the first pope from the Americas, the first Jesuit pope, and the first to choose the name Francis—after St. Francis of Assisi, a symbol of peace, poverty, and care for creation.

Among his many contributions, Pope Francis was a passionate advocate for Catholic education. He once said:

“Catholic education is one of the most important challenges for the Church, committed as she is to proclaiming the way of life. It is beautiful to educate young people, it is a love story—young people must be educated in freedom, for freedom.”

These words remind us that Catholic education is more than academics—it is the formation of the whole person. Pope Francis believed in nurturing both the mind and the heart. He encouraged schools to be places where faith and reason walk hand in hand, where students are taught to think critically, live morally, and act compassionately.

At Regina Caeli Academy, we have seen this vision come to life. In our classrooms, on the playground, in our service projects and daily prayers, we strive to help our students grow not only in knowledge but in virtue. Pope Francis’ example calls us to continue this mission with renewed purpose.

As we reflect on his passing, let us commit to living out his vision: to be people of hope, compassion, and courage—formed in faith and ready to serve the world.

May Pope Francis rest in the peace of Christ, whom he served so faithfully.

“Let us pray for one another. Let us pray for the whole world, that there may be a great spirit of fraternity.” – Pope Francis