Since the passing of Pope Francis, a hymn I last heard in church about 40 years ago has stayed in my mind. "Blessed Are They Who Are Poor In Spirit" has a downcast, droning melody but assures listeners that those who are meek, humble, strive for justice, and show mercy toward others will inherit the earth. Those admirable qualities exemplified Pope Francis, who, by papal standards, was compassionate and made comforting the marginalized more of a priority than others would.
Here's hoping that his successor upholds--and builds upon--those priorities.
