10 Memorable Moments That Cemented the Legacy of Pope Francis

Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 88 on April 21, 2025, after suffering a stroke and heart failure, leaves behind a profound legacy as one of the most transformative and compassionate figures in modern religious history. His papacy was marked by a deep commitment to social justice, humility, and reform, making him a beloved figure across the globe.

The following ten moments from his papacy reflect the essence of his leadership, compassion, and unwavering dedication to humanity, particularly to the marginalized and voiceless.

The Pope Brings Refugees Home to the Vatican

In 2016, during a visit to the Greek island of Lesbos, Pope Francis witnessed the dire humanitarian crisis caused by the Syrian refugee crisis. He did more than simply call attention to the issue—he took action. Pope Francis brought 12 Muslim refugees from Syria back with him to the Vatican on the papal plane.

These refugees, whose homes had been bombed during the war, were welcomed by the pope as "guests of the Vatican." This extraordinary act of kindness encapsulated his commitment to the plight of refugees, showing the world that compassion should not just be an ideal but an actionable reality.

The Pope Comforts a Little Boy Whose Father Was an Atheist
One of the most emotionally charged moments of Pope Francis's papacy occurred in April 2018, when he comforted a young boy named Emanuel. Emanuel had recently lost his father, who, despite baptizing his children, had been an atheist.

During a visit to a parish in Rome, Emanuel tearfully asked the pope, “Is my father in heaven?” Pope Francis’s response was profound, emphasizing the beauty of Emanuel’s relationship with his father and reassuring him that God was proud of his father’s courage to raise his children in faith despite his own lack of belief. This moment reflected the pope’s deep empathy for people dealing with loss and his ability to speak to the human soul in times of grief.

The Pope Embraces a Man Covered with Boils
In 2013, Pope Francis showed his characteristic compassion when he encountered Vinicio Riva, a man suffering from neurofibromatosis type 1, a rare genetic disorder that left him covered with painful growths. The pope embraced Riva without hesitation, sending a powerful message of love and acceptance to the world.

Riva’s experience, feeling the warmth and genuine care of the pope’s embrace, reflected Francis's belief that true Christianity involves love and care for those who are most visibly suffering and marginalized by society.

"Who Am I to Judge?"

One of Pope Francis’s most groundbreaking statements came during his first papal trip in 2013 when he was asked about the Church's stance on homosexuality. "If someone is gay and he searches for the Lord and has good will, who am I to judge?" he asked.

This simple but revolutionary question broke from centuries of condemnation by religious leaders, offering a message of inclusion and acceptance for the LGBTQ+ community. Although his words did not change the official doctrine of the Church, they signaled a shift towards a more compassionate and open approach, offering hope to LGBTQ+ Catholics and beyond.

Washing the Feet of Migrants
In a powerful display of humility and solidarity with the most vulnerable, Pope Francis made a symbolic gesture during the 2016 Holy Thursday Mass. He washed and kissed the feet of 11 refugees from various backgrounds, including Muslims, Hindus, and Christians.

This act, mirroring the actions of Jesus during the Last Supper, sent a clear message to the world that the pope stood with refugees and the marginalized. His words during the ceremony, expressing the desire for peace and brotherhood, resonated deeply with those who felt neglected by the global community.

The Pope Has Lunch with Homeless People in Washington, D.C.

During his historic 2015 visit to the United States, Pope Francis broke tradition by not dining with political leaders after addressing Congress. Instead, he chose to spend time with 300 homeless people at a shelter in Washington, D.C.

The pope’s decision to break bread with those living on the fringes of society was a powerful reminder of the importance of caring for the poor and vulnerable. His message was clear: "We can find no social or moral justification for lack of housing," reinforcing his consistent advocacy for the homeless and disenfranchised.

Preaching to an Empty St. Peter's Square
In March 2020, as the world grappled with the COVID-19 pandemic, Pope Francis delivered a moving "Urbi et Orbi" address to an empty St. Peter's Square. As the world faced unprecedented fear and isolation, the pope spoke words of hope and solidarity, reminding the world of the shared humanity that connects us all.

His message emphasized the need for unity in the face of crisis and called for a reassessment of global priorities, urging people to consider values beyond materialism and self-interest.

Visiting Children in the Hospital

Pope Francis’s empathy for children, particularly those suffering from illness, was evident during his 2023 recovery from surgery. After undergoing a hernia operation, the pope visited children with cancer at Rome’s Agostino Gemelli University Polyclinic.

His visit, though brief, brought comfort and joy to the young patients and their families, showcasing his unwavering commitment to bringing light to those in dark times.

Blessing the Eyes of a Child Who Was Going Blind
In 2016, Pope Francis visited a young girl named Lizzy Myers, who had a genetic disorder that was causing her to lose her eyesight. Lizzy had a bucket list to see the world before her vision deteriorated completely, and meeting the pope was one of her dreams.

The pope blessed Lizzy’s eyes, a tender moment that encapsulated his deep compassion for people with disabilities. His simple act of kindness spoke volumes about his understanding of the struggles faced by individuals living with physical challenges.

Inviting a Cancer Survivor with Down Syndrome to Ride on the Popemobile

During a 2018 visit to Rome, Pope Francis fulfilled the wish of a 12-year-old boy named Peter Lombardi, who had survived leukemia and had Down syndrome. The boy’s dream was to ride in the papal popemobile, and the pope made it come true, stopping to greet him and invite him into the vehicle.

This moment, captured on video, was a testament to the pope’s devotion to children and his recognition of the importance of making dreams come true for those who face significant challenges.

These ten moments, each filled with compassion, humility, and inclusivity, are just a few of the many instances that defined Pope Francis’s extraordinary papacy. His legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire and challenge the world to embody the values of love, mercy, and care for the most vulnerable in society.

Pope Francis’s ability to lead with heart and humanity has left an indelible mark on the Church and on the world, making him a pope whose influence will be felt for generations to come.