At St. Francis High School, the name we carry is more than just a title—it’s a calling. The name “Francis” has always reminded us of simplicity, compassion, peace, and care for the poor, just as Saint Francis of Assisi lived centuries ago. But in our own lifetime, we had the gift of witnessing someone who embodied that same spirit: Pope Francis.
Today, as we reflect on his passing, we do so not only as members of the Catholic community but as students and staff of a school that shares his name—a name that Pope Francis honored with his life.
When Jorge Mario Bergoglio became the first pope to ever choose the name “Francis,” it was a powerful message to the world. He chose the name in honor of Saint Francis of Assisi, signaling a papacy rooted in humility, mercy, and love for the most vulnerable. These are the very values we strive to live by here at St. Francis High School.
Pope Francis showed us that greatness lies in simplicity. Whether he was riding in a small car, embracing the poor, or speaking out for the environment, his actions spoke louder than words. His life was a reflection of the Gospel—a reminder that faith must always be lived through love.
At St. Francis High, we are proud to carry the name “Francis” not just as a legacy of the past, but as a living mission. In our classrooms, in our acts of service, in the way we treat one another—we are called to walk in the footsteps of both Saint Francis and Pope Francis.
His passing leaves a deep void in the heart of the Church, but his spirit lives on. In our school halls, in our prayers, in every effort we make to be peacemakers and caretakers of creation, we honor him.
May we continue to grow into the kind of people Pope Francis believed young people could become—people of hope, courage, and compassion. And may we always remember that bearing the name "Francis" is not just about where we go to school, but about who we choose to become.
"Pope Francis made history in 2013 when he was elected the 266th pope of the Catholic Church. What made his election truly historic was that he became the first pope from the Americas—specifically from Argentina in South America.
Before Pope Francis, all popes had come from Europe, mostly Italy. But the cardinals of the Church, gathered in a conclave at the Vatican, chose someone different. They saw in Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio a man of deep faith, humility, and a strong connection to the people—especially the poor.
His background as a Jesuit priest who lived simply and served in one of the world’s largest and most diverse Catholic communities helped him stand out. When elected, he chose the name Francis, after Saint Francis of Assisi, symbolizing his mission of peace, humility, and care for creation.
With that, Pope Francis became not only the first American pope, but also the first Jesuit pope, and the first pope to choose the name Francis—a man of many “firsts,” whose leadership has touched hearts around the world."
Rest in peace, Pope Francis.Thank you for showing the world what it truly means to live a life of faith, service, and love.