A Humble Shepherd, A Global Legacy: Pope Francis and the Future of the Church

As the world paused to mourn the passing of Pope Francis during the school holidays, we at ����Vlog give thanks for a life defined by Courage, Commitment, and Compassion. His papacy has been one of powerful witness, not through dramatic declarations, but through steady, faithful leadership grounded in service and simplicity.

Pope Francis became a symbol of what it means to lead with integrity in the modern world. From choosing to live in modest accommodation rather than the Apostolic Palace, to speaking plainly and directly to the world’s most pressing issues, he embodied the message that the Church must not be distant from people’s lives but walk alongside them with compassion and truth.

There is a story circulating about Pope Francis leaving only $100 in his will, and while this not yet been verified, it is widely shared and has a powerful symbol of his simplicity and detachment from material wealth. Whether strictly factual or symbolic, the message behind it aligns with how he lived: humbly, without attachment to possessions or privilege. Pope Francis lived and died as he always encouraged others to live: with radical humility, a deep trust in God, and a clear focus on the things that truly matter,  love, service, justice, and faith.

In a world often obsessed with status, wealth, and accumulation, this final gesture (or at least the story of it) speaks volumes. It reminds Catholics and others that leadership is not about power or comfort, but about living for others and staying true to the Gospel.

Agility and Authenticity

Throughout his pontificate, Francis upheld the Church’s deep commitment to Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition, while also urging the Church to remain attentive to the real human experiences of today. He didn’t change the core teachings of the Church, rather, he deepened its ability to listen, accompany, and respond pastorally to the joys and struggles of ordinary people.

He invited the Church to be agile, not reactive, but discerning; not rigid, but responsive to where the Holy Spirit is calling us in this time of history.

The Conclave: A Moment of Global Discernment

This Tuesday, the College of Cardinals will enter a sacred process known as the Conclave, the centuries-old tradition by which a new pope is elected. The word conclave comes from Latin meaning “with a key,” because the cardinals are locked in seclusion, dedicating themselves wholly to prayer, dialogue, and decision-making.

Here’s how it works:

• Cardinals under the age of 80 are eligible to vote.

• They meet in the Sistine Chapel, casting secret ballots until one individual receives a two-thirds majority.

• Once elected, the new pope is asked if he accepts. Upon acceptance, he chooses a papal name and is introduced to the world from the balcony of St Peter’s Basilica.

The Conclave is not simply a vote,  it is a profound moment of listening to God, for the sake of the Church and the world. Over the next few days, we will see scenes on TV and social media of crowds gathering in Saint Peter’s Square, watching for the smoke from the chimney atop the Sistine Chapel. After each vote the ballots are burnt: if the smoke is black then no decision has been made, but when the smoke is white, we know the Cardinals have made their choice!

Francis’ Long View: A Reformed and Global Church

One of Pope Francis’ most enduring contributions has been the reshaping of the College of Cardinals itself. During his papacy, he appointed cardinals from a wide variety of nations, many from parts of the world historically underrepresented in Church leadership.

In doing so, he has ensured that the next pope,  and the direction of the Church, will reflect a more global and missionary identity, one that speaks to the realities of life in Africa, Asia, Latin America, and beyond.

His choices have strengthened the Church’s ability to engage with a rapidly changing world while remaining anchored in timeless truths.

Why This Moment Matters to Young People

For the students of ����Vlog, this moment is not only historic, it is personal. Pope Francis consistently challenged young people to be courageous, to think deeply, to act justly, and to live your faith with joy and authenticity.

He reminded young people that your voice matters, and that the Church needs your energy, your questions, and your hope. He called you not just the future of the Church, but its now.

As we await the election of a new pope, we invite our young people to:

• Pray for the Conclave, that the cardinals may be guided by the Holy Spirit.

• Stay curious and engaged, learning about how the Church works and how it grows through time.

• Reflect on your own leadership, and how you too are called to influence your community with courage, commitment and compassion.

A Legacy of Hope

Pope Francis leaves behind a Church more open to encounter, more globally aware, and more confident in its mission. He taught us that strength is found in simplicity, and that fidelity to Christ requires both heart and mind.

As the Church prepares to elect a new pope, we trust that the seeds Francis has planted of reform, of dialogue, and of global solidarity will continue to bear fruit.

Pope Francis once said, “The future does have a name… and its name is hope.”

May his legacy inspire all of us, staff, students, families, to be people of hope, humility, and healing in our world.

Let us watch and pray, as the Church prepares to choose a new shepherd. May the next pope continue to walk the path Francis paved: one of love, mercy, and faithful courage.