Presswatch,Dhaka : On Monday, the world said goodbye to a spiritual giant — a man who walked with humility, spoke with courage, and lived with boundless compassion. The passing of Pope Francis marks not just the end of a papacy, but the departure of a moral force who transformed hearts, communities, and the very spirit of global leadership.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, Pope Francis became the first Jesuit pope, the first from the Americas, and the first to choose the name “Francis” — inspired by Saint Francis of Assisi, the patron of peace and the poor. True to that name, he stood for simplicity over excess, presence over position, and love over division.
Pope Francis redefined what it means to lead a church — or any institution. His papacy was not confined to Vatican walls but reached into war zones, refugee camps, slums, and forests. He spoke of climate change as a moral issue, called for bridges between faiths instead of walls, and dared to say: “Who am I to judge?”
His words and actions inspired not just Catholics, but people of all beliefs and backgrounds. He knelt to wash the feet of prisoners and immigrants. He opened Vatican shelters for the homeless. He embraced the outcast and challenged the powerful. He reminded us that spirituality is not about dogma alone, but about dignity — every human being’s right to live, be seen, and be loved.
“Rivers do not drink their own water; trees do not eat their own fruit. The sun does not shine on itself. Living for others is a rule of nature.” – Pope Francis
From Laudato Si’ to Fratelli Tutti, his writings were not just theological; they were revolutionary calls for kindness, unity, and shared responsibility. Under his leadership, the Church became a louder voice for justice, a softer shoulder for suffering, and a brighter light for those walking in darkness.
All over the world, people are mourning not just a pope, but a moral compass, a shepherd of the soul. His life reminds us that holiness does not come from robes or rituals — it comes from the courage to care.
In loving tribute, we remember the words now translated from millions of hearts:
We are deeply saddened by the death of Pope Francis. He was a symbol of peace, unity, and humanity. His teachings and values will remain forever etched in the hearts of billions around the world. We pray for the eternal peace of his soul.
May the Shepherd of Peace rest in eternal serenity — and may his light guide us still.
Author: Professor Dr Md Abu Bakar Siddique, Dean Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences Royal University of Dhaka.The author is widely known as Dr Dipu Siddiqui. Email a.siddique@royal.edu.bd