The world needs more people like Pope Francis
With Pope Francis' passing, the world has lost an extraordinary man who showed humility, empathy, kindness, intelligence, and love, a reader writes. Credit: Getty Images/Franco Origlia
I am saddened by the death of Pope Francis. The world has lost an extraordinary man who in a powerful role showed humility, empathy, kindness, intelligence, and love to not only his fellow Catholics but to the human race [“New pope should be like Francis in spirit,” Opinion, April 22].
While I am Jewish with many Catholic friends, the pope earned my admiration, respect, and love for all he attempted to do to heal the pain and discord we are experiencing. This planet needs more people like him in leadership positions instead of the many bad actors around the world.
— Mike Solomon, Northport
In 2013, Cardinal Jorge Bergoglio, upon learning he’d become the next pope, called his newspaper delivery person to thank him and let him know he would no longer need the newspaper delivered. I was struck by the gesture and Pope Francis’ humility. It spoke to the one-to-one connection we have with people.
If you followed his beliefs, you learned of his deep respect for those marginalized, in need and most vulnerable. In his Easter 2025 address, he spoke of reviving our trust in others, including those different than ourselves, who come from distant lands, bringing unfamiliar customs, ways of life, and ideas. It’s in stark contrast to what is happening around us today.
My hope is that we take a moment to reflect on his wishes and try to make them a little more actionable each day.
— Bill Cook, Long Beach
A reader criticized Catholic bishops for their concern with refugees “Bishops should help homeless over here,” Letters, April 17]. Jesus’ love extends to all people, of all nations, and beyond all borders. Therefore, the work of the Catholic Church, Catholic bishops, priests and laity should reflect Christ’s example.
Vice President JD Vance has pontificated that Catholic theology limits our charity to our close circle of friends and neighbors.
Before passing, Pope Francis, the actual pontiff, clarified that this is false and instructed the faithful to follow Christ instead.
— Rita Reid, Melville
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