"He’s empathetic for those on the 'outside' of society."

Nicole Dupuis

My faith is the centre of my life. I attend daily mass as much as possible, visit Reconciliation monthly, and am constantly seeking to improve my prayer life through frequent Adoration, spiritual reading, and involvement in Church activities. As a convert to Catholicism in 2014, I have a deep love for our history, traditions, theology, and saints. My first opinion of the pope was “he’s SO CUTE!” I immediately noticed his joyful smile, comfort with all people, and empathy for those on the “outside” of society. I thought he was exactly the kind of leader we need in our broken and hurting world. He is a smiling Pope who understands the times we’re living in, but stays strong in Catholic teachings, making them relevant causing a positive and strong impact on youth.. I think people interpret his teachings as changing Catholic truth, when in reality, he is conveying teachings in a new way. I think Pope Francis is an encouragement for Catholics and non-Catholics to seek and live out Truth. I I had a chance to speak to Pope Francis, after more than likely crying, I would say ‘thank you’ to Papa Frankie and ask him to pray for me.

In Buenos Aires Father Bergoglio was shaped by the slums and the people who lived in poverty. This heart for those on the outside of society has come with him to his pontificate. He is constantly preaching for us to be beacons of love to all, especially those in vulnerable positions around us. A recent example of this near constant refrain was when he sent congratulations to the new president of the United States, Donald Trump. His letter to President Trump read “May America’s stature continue to be measured above all by its concern for the poor, the outcast and those in need.” He knows that our fellow man should be our focus, whether we are students or global leaders. In a time where there are millions of people who are refugees, homeless, hungry, or sick we must look beyond ourselves and see what we can do to help and the pope is there to encourage us along the way.