In quiet grace, a beacon shone,
A shepherd’s heart, a love well-known.
With open arms and gentle voice,
He called us all to share in choice.
Through trials faced, his spirit soared,
A humble man, by faith adored.
He walked with us through joy and pain,
A guiding light in sun and rain.
A voice for those who had no say,
He championed peace, he paved the way.
With every step, he broke the mold,
A tender heart, yet fiercely bold.
He spoke of love, of mercy’s might,
In darkest hours, he brought us light.
With every prayer, a bridge he built,
Uniting hearts, dissolving guilt.
From crowded streets to distant lands,
He reached across with gentle hands.
A father to the lost and weak,
In every word, his love would speak.
He taught us how to see the grace
In every soul, in every place.
With laughter shared and tears embraced,
He showed us how to walk in faith.
Now as we mourn, we hold him near,
His legacy, forever clear.
In every heart that he inspired,
His spirit lives, forever admired.
Pope Francis, you shall not fade,
In love and hope, your light cascades.
Though we may grieve, we’ll carry on,
Your teachings guide us, ever strong.
In unity, we stand as one,
Your mission lives, it’s just begun.
With gratitude, we say goodbye,
In every prayer, your spirit flies.
By: Elizabeth A. Kaine