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John -

As the reality of Pope Francis’ death ([link removed]) sinks in and news outlets show critical moments of his papacy, I find myself relishing a highlight reel of memories that I didn’t realize I had stored.

Pope Francis has made it clear that, if we are to boil down his theology to one word, it would be “mercy.” However, what is emerging for me as I mourn him and reflect on his impact is the word “tenderness.” You can’t be merciful without tenderness. The mercy that the father showed his wayward son in the Prodigal Son parable wouldn’t be so visceral if it weren’t accompanied by such lavish tenderness. Similarly, the mercy that Pope Francis embodied in his best public moments wouldn’t soften us so much if they weren’t so tender.

So, in this vulnerable and liminal moment we are in as a Church, I’m choosing to lean into tenderness. While I usually like praying with Jesus or a feminine Holy Spirit, Francis’ gestures have made it very easy for me to be with God the Father. He bridged that gap between my heart and the heavens, which is exactly what pontifex means and what a pope is supposed to do. May the next one do likewise.

Below, find more reflections on Pope Francis' impact from ISN staff, Ignatian leaders, and the extended Ignatian family as you prepare for Saturday's funeral and the novemdiales (nine days of mourning). You can stream the funeral from Vatican News' live feed, which we have included in our Pope Francis legacy page ([link removed]) .

In solidarity,
Andrew Hanson-Quintana
Assistant Director of Communications
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Pope Francis strongly edified our work at ISN. Visit our legacy page for the live stream link to Pope Francis' funeral, along with numerous reflections, quotes, and resources as we collectively give thanks for his life and ministry. Explore the Pope Francis Legacy page ([link removed]) .

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As a staff, we've been consoled by the time we've taken this week to mourn together. Read some of our reflections that have helped us grow closer together ([link removed]) .

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Leaders across the Ignatian educational network have offered insightful words on behalf of their respective communities regarding Pope Francis. Read reactions from institutional leaders. ([link removed])

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We invited individuals throughout the Ignatian Family, including young people and educators, to share their grief and gratitude. Read some of the reflections they shared here. ([link removed])

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Ignatian Solidarity Network's mission is to educate and form advocates for social justice animated by the spirituality of St. Ignatius of Loyola and the witness of the Jesuit martyrs of El Salvador and their companions.

Learn more at: ignatiansolidarity.net ([link removed])

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