FAREWELL, SHEPHERD OF MERCY

Honorine Uwimana

From South America’s humble land, 

To Vatican’s grand, apostolic stand, 

With a grace that astounds, you reminded us

That a "Peter" can rise from the Global South’s dust.

If a Savior was born in a manger’s lowly place, 

Then greatness can bloom in the least likely space. 

You taught us that love and justice entwine, 

In every act, in every sign, even in your last.

Your papacy aligned with my youth,

Saying "yes" to love amidst hopes and fears. 

It was not a lonely journey, 

With you, who shepherded it from near and far.

In social justice and a Church made anew, 

You modeled discipleship, tending to your sheep, 

Especially the despised, abandoned, and scorned, 

You turned not away but embraced the least, The last, and the lost.

You taught compassion, no matter the cost, 

Not just for kin, but for Earth’s embrace— Our common home, a sacred nest. 

You showed us that kneeling, seeking penance, 

Is strength, not weakness, in God’s embrace, mercy prevails.

In our blindness, your vision led us to the sacred fountain. 

Through your guidance, our spirits were fed. 

Your final Easter message, a saving light, 

A gospel to last, calling for peace, ending endless nights.

For Palestinians, Israelis, Congo’s land, Sudan, South Sudan, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Yemen, Syria’s sand, Lebanon’s pain, 

You carried their burdens with care.

Even in twilight, you chose the path, Visiting prisons, sharing the Last Supper’s bath. No margins existed where you would tread, Every soul mattered, each person a living tabernacle to honor.

Papa Francisco, Thank you for redefining our youth 

And standing firm in truth. 

In your love for Mary and in bringing to the altar Women of the Bible and the modern Church, Our ancestors in the sainthood line, 

A resounding "Ave" you hailed with faith.

No one went unnoticed in your care,

In your creed, we found divine repair. 

In your humility, God’s glory was shown, 

Through you, His love was widely known, And His nearness deeply felt.

Thank you, Papa Francisco, 

Your legacy of love and peace will stay, 

Guiding us each and every day.

By Honorine Uwimana