As Pope Francis’s health declines amid a recent bout of illness—bronchitis progressing to pneumonia and requiring ongoing hospitalization—Catholics worldwide are reflecting on his profound legacy. Pope Francis, the 266th leader of the Roman Catholic Church, has dedicated his papal tenure to mercy, social justice, and inclusivity. He has ushered in a bright and hopeful era in the Church’s long history, embracing the marginalized and urging global action on pressing humanitarian and environmental concerns. However, the prospect of his passing, which grows more likely as his illness progresses, casts a looming shadow over the faithful. As questions mount regarding his ability to continue leading the world’s largest religious denomination, institutions across the globe—including Saint Anselm College—are already considering how to respond to his potential departure, regardless of the circumstances. 

Though the Vatican has sought to downplay concerns over the Pope’s health, reports of his mobility struggles, recurring illnesses, and hospital visits have fueled speculation about the end of his incumbency. Whether his papacy concludes through retirement—following the precedent set by his predecessor, Pope Benedict XVI—or through his passing, one thing is certain: the Church is bracing for a significant transition. Beyond concerns for his personal well-being, these developments raise broader questions about the future of the papacy and the legacy Francis will leave behind. His tenure has been marked by bold reforms and a spirit of openness, and his successor’s willingness to continue this trajectory will shape the Church for years to come. 

As a Catholic institution, Saint Anselm College—and the monastic community on campus—would be particularly impacted by the pope’s passing. “The college community will likely be both shocked and distressed [by his death],” said Father Benedict M. Guevin, a theologian and spiritual leader on campus. “I imagine that many on campus will go to the Abbey Church to pray for the repose of his soul. The papal flag will be flown at half-mast. Prayers will be said for the same intention.” Father Benedict also reflected on how the pope’s passing would be felt within the monastic community. “The monks, who eat in silence, have listened to every major encyclical or apostolic letter that he has written,” he noted. “We are enjoined to obey the Holy Father as we do the Abbot of Saint Anselm Abbey.” 

Though the pope does not directly influence the day-to-day life of the monastery, his effect on the institution is undeniable. Pope Francis was not only the first pope from Latin America, bringing a fresh perspective to the papacy, but also the first in Church history to approve the appointment of a non-ordained abbot—Saint Anselm Abbey’s own Abbot Isaac Murphy. Additionally, his focus on ecological justice and deep compassion for marginalized peoples have profoundly shaped Catholic discourse in recent years. “His outreach and hospitality to those at the margins and those who are vulnerable is part-and-parcel to the Benedictine charism of our college,” said Professor Marc Rugani, interim director of the College’s Center for Ethics. “His leadership reinforces my confidence in the mission of our school and our approach to serving all of our students in and through the Catholic Christian faith.”

Francis’s tenure has been defined by his commitment to broadening the Church’s outreach. Whether through his visits to remote communities, his advocacy for the poor and displaced, or his emphasis on environmental stewardship in encyclicals such as Laudato Si’, he has reshaped the papacy into a platform for global justice. His message has resonated far beyond the Catholic world, making him a spiritual figure of international significance. As he faces the twilight of his papacy, the impact of his leadership will endure. His calls for compassion, inclusivity, and moral responsibility will continue to inspire future generations, both within the Church and beyond. 

While we continue to pray for his recovery, it is evident that Pope Francis’s time as the leader of the Catholic Church may soon come to an end. Yet, even after his tenure, his legacy will live on—guiding the Church and shaping the world for years to come.