The Pope Who Spoke to Us And Listened Back

"Pope Francis has died at the age of 88."

I read it again in disbelief.

This was the first headline I saw when I opened my phone the other day and it hit me harder than I ever expected.

Coming from a predominantly Catholic country, I immediately felt a deep, collective sense of loss. Pope Francis wasn’t just a religious figure; he was a symbol of humility, courage, and open dialogue in an increasingly divided world.

I watched “The Pope: Answers (Francisco Responde)” when it was released two years ago (and rewatched it last night), and that documentary completely shifted my perception of him. I wasn’t particularly devout, but after watching it, I found myself truly admiring the man behind the title.

In an era where many of my generation have distanced themselves from the Church, questioning its relevance, feeling disillusioned by its slow evolution — Pope Francis stood out as a beacon of empathy and reform.

The documentary is nothing short of miraculous. 

In it, Pope Francis sits down with young people from all walks of life, different cultures, beliefs, and identities — and answers their raw, unfiltered questions with remarkable openness. It’s a slow burn of truth, compassion, and real dialogue. 

He doesn’t hide behind doctrine. He listens. He reflects. He responds.

For anyone questioning faith, purpose, or even just the relevance of spiritual leadership in modern life, I highly recommend watching this film. It's not just about religion, it’s about what it means to be human in today’s world.

This year, we’ve lost a figure who reignited faith, not just in religion, but in ourselves. 

In our ability to choose compassion over judgment. In our power to live authentically, guided not by fear or shame, but by joy, empathy, and a deep responsibility to one another.

Rest in power, Pope Francis.