I always felt the pressure to have the utmost respect for the Pope. Sometimes, it seemed like the faith placed him on a pedestal, almost alongside God. But personally, I never fully shared that reverence. After all, he is a man—not Jesus, not God—and I haven’t always agreed with everything he had to say.
My experiences in Catholic school shaped my perspective. I witnessed moments where not all nuns and priests embodied the very Christian values they preached. It was disheartening to see acts of punishment, like being smacked with paddles, or swated with a pojer ( the long stick they used to point at things on the black board or slam on the test when too many of us were talking in class) that certainly didn’t feel loving or compassionate. I know, because on once or twice I was on the receiving end of that long poker and paddle , and the verbal abuse was regular.
Because I approached my faith differently, I often faced criticism. The principal who was a nun and the Monsignor labeled me as not being a “good “ Catholic all because I had a mind of my own and thoughts.
Despite that, today, I offer prayers for those mourning the loss of the Pope and for those wondering who will follow in his footsteps.
Pope Francis was a kind and dedicated man, who truly devoted his life to serving God and his faith. May his family and followers find comfort, knowing he is now resting with our Father in Heaven.
I left the Catholic faith after my divorce of being married to an abuser for 10 years and the church kept trying to convince me to stay even longer;
And when I didn’t, they decided to excommunicate me which was fine and that’s when I found Highway, Tabernacle in the shield of faith ministry and make sure my daughter got a Christian education just not Catholic education although she is baptized Catholic
You see I may not have been a good catholic girl based on their opinions, but I was a good Christian. I never recall in religion class learning about the Bible. Just how to act.
I don’t hold my experience against all catholic church’s :
Because I find the beauty of the Catholic Church in their services.
The beauty of the altar- I still till this day will often visit various churches of all denominations to sit there in silence, and say a prayer.
Prayer in Remembrance of Pope Francis
Heavenly Father,
Today we come before You as we remember the life and legacy of Pope Francis. We thank You for the gift of his leadership, wisdom, and compassion that inspired millions around the world. He dedicated his life to serving others, promoting peace, and spreading Your love.
Lord, may we carry forward his teachings of humility, kindness, and love.
In this time of mourning, we ask for Your comfort for all who are grieving his passing. May Your peace surround them and the Church and guide us as we continue on our spiritual journeys.
We pray for Pope Francis’ soul, asking that he finds eternal rest in Your loving embrace. May his example continue to encourage us to live with faith, hope, and charity, reaching out to those in need and advocating for justice and mercy.
In Your name, we pray. Amen.
Joyful-Echoes 