Was Pope Francis a ‘gospel man’?

Posted on April 30, 2025 
Filed under People, Theology

“Throughout my life, and during my ministry as a priest and bishop, I have always entrusted myself to the Mother of Our Lord, the Blessed Virgin Mary. … I wish my final earthly journey to end precisely in this ancient Marian sanctuary, where I would always stop to pray at the beginning and end of every Apostolic Journey, confidently entrusting my intentions to the Immaculate Mother, and giving thanks for her gentle and maternal care.” (Santa Marta, Vatican City, 29 June 2022)

These are the words contained in Pope Francis’ testament where he outlines his last wishes. His deep devotion to Mary is pervasive and profound.

On one hand, there is no surprise …

– At The Australian Church Record, Leonardo De Chirico takes a look at what Pope Francis said was most important to him.