Catholics in the Rio Grande Valley Reflect on the Legacy of Pope Francis Following His Passing
On April 21, 2025, the Basilica of Our Lady of San Juan del Valle in the Rio Grande Valley filled with mourners as the community gathered to honor the life of Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 88. For many local Catholics, including regular attendees and those who attend less frequently, his death resonated deeply, marking a moment of collective sorrow among the faithful.
Pope Francis: A Leader for the Marginalized
Catholics in Texas, forming the second-largest religious group in the state, remember Francis as a progressive figure who advocated for the marginalized and created an environment of inclusivity within the Catholic Church. “I think it’s a global loss,” remarked Rodrigo Garcia, a 54-year-old from Brownsville, identifying himself as a progressive Catholic. He further stated, “Pope Francis was an individual that cared for everyone and was more reformed than most other leaders in our world today.”
Encouraging Inclusivity Within the Church
Francis was widely celebrated for his commitment to social justice and compassion for the less fortunate. His approach to various social issues often sparked debate, particularly among more conservative members of the Church. His well-known statement, “Who am I to judge?” in response to queries regarding a gay priest, exemplified his inclusive philosophy.
Madeleine Croll, a 44-year-old transgender woman from McAllen, shared her experiences growing up in the Catholic Church and articulated how Pope Francis inspired hope for acceptance. She noted, “His Holiness has left a profound legacy, using his voice to focus the ministry of Holy Mother Church to care for the least of us.”
Changing Perspectives on Social Issues
Maria Candelaria Palacios, a 75-year-old parishioner from Las Milpas, reflected on the impact Francs had on her views regarding the LGBTQ community and divorce. Her interactions with local clergy and the Pope’s teachings encouraged her to embrace a more accepting viewpoint, contrasting her previous reservations. She emphasized, “Just because they [the LGBTQ community] are different does not mean that we are going to set them aside or marginalize them.”
Pope Francis’s Health and Passing
Pope Francis faced significant health challenges in the years leading to his death, such as chronic lung disease, which had resulted in hospitalization earlier in the year for pneumonia. He suffered a stroke on the day of his passing, which subsequently led to heart failure, as confirmed by Vatican authorities.
A Legacy of Hope
In the weeks following the announcement of Pope Francis’s death, many, including Garcia, expressed optimism about the continuation of his teachings. He stated, “I trust that we’ve all learned something from him, and we can all somehow contribute to making his life a tribute in our actions, our words, our thoughts.”
The legacy of Pope Francis, known for his approachability and dedication to social issues, continues to resonate deeply within the Catholic community of the Rio Grande Valley and beyond. His life encourages many to foster compassion and understanding in their daily lives.
Reporting in the Rio Grande Valley is supported in part by the Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc.