Dear Pope Francis, our deepest gratitude forever!

The more we read about his good deeds and words shared with so many all throughout the world, the more painful and difficult it is to accept that our dear Pope Francis has left our world.

- Cherry Piquero-Ballescas

Oh, how the whole world so loved him! Pope Francis was everyone’s Pope.

More intimately, he was a member of everyone’s family!

He was, is Lolo Kiko to millions of Filipinos who still remember how Pope Francis braved through a storm to get closer to the families of victims of the deadly Typhoon Yolanda, to be with them, to share his presence/concern/and love.

Where he had words for those that needed their pain/loss to be soothed, he lovingly/gently offered them. Where he had no words to share, he embraced/kissed them.

‘And his prayers offered for all.

Just as humbly, from the very start of his papacy until his last day, he always asked everyone to always pray for him too.

By sharing his presence, concern, hugs and kisses for the “outcast” of this world, Pope Francis brought God closer in our midst.