A Papal Requiem

Pope Francis died on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88 at his residence in the Vatican's Casa Santa Marta. There is so much that could be said of this wonderful man, but here is an impressionistic poem (a rondel), reflecting seeing him on his last Easter Sunday this year, his message to the city and the world, frail, struggling for breath, but blessing us all with his presence.

A Papal Requiem

Pope Francis, at the end of his days
A true Vicar of Christ, giving hope
Clothed simplicity, not ornate cope
Blessing the people, Easter praise

Washed prisoners feet was his ways
Prayed for those who could not cope
Pope Francis, at the end of his days
A true Vicar of Christ, giving hope

The light of Christ sends out its rays
As with breath, he struggles to cope
Death approaches, within his scope
This holy soul, that Christ will raise
Pope Francis, at the end of his days
A true Vicar of Christ, giving hope