Bishop Donald Hying on The Pope of Mercy, Mission, and Mother Mary

As the Church continues to mourn and honor Pope Francis, Bishop Donald Hying offered a deeply personal and inspiring reflection on how the late Holy Father impacted not just the global Church, but his own life and ministry. Bishop Hying explained Pope Francis’ legacy by illustrating three of the biggest tenets that our late Holy Father exemplified masterfully.

1. Evangelization on Fire
Pope Francis didn’t just talk about evangelization—he embodied it. His landmark document Evangelii Gaudium (The Joy of the Gospel) reignited a global call to missionary discipleship, challenging Catholics to go out, engage, and witness. And it’s bearing fruit: many are converting or reverting to the Faith, and the Church is alive with renewed energy.

2. A Relentless Cry for Peace
Whether it was Ukraine, Gaza, or conflict zones across Africa, Pope Francis consistently stood as a voice of conscience on the world stage. Bishop Hying recalled the powerful moment when the Pope consecrated Russia and Ukraine to the Immaculate Heart of Mary, uniting millions in prayer for peace.

3. Radical Love for the Poor
Perhaps most of all, Pope Francis mirrored Christ in his love for the poor and forgotten. He echoed St. Mother Teresa’s tenderness, pushing the Church to go to the margins and reminding us that the face of Christ is found among the least of these.

Bishop Hying met Pope Francis four times, including a meaningful conversation in Spanish during his visit to Rome in December. He described the Pope as warm, approachable, humble, humorous, and fully present in every interaction.

“A very human pope,” he said—one who made holiness feel accessible and close.

Pope Francis had a deep devotion to the Sacred Heart, Divine Mercy, and the Blessed Mother.

He made mercy the anthem of his pontificate, from declaring the Year of Mercy to making confession visibly central again. Bishop Hying has seen confession surging in his own diocese, crediting Pope Francis’ humble example.

Bishop Hying encouraged all of us to reflect: How did Pope Francis’ witness touch your life? And most importantly, pray for his soul, for the Church, and for the discernment of the cardinals as they prepare to elect the next successor of Peter.

Want to receive more information about the life and legacy of Pope Francis, as well as updates on the upcoming conclave? Sign up for SmokeWatch here.

At this pivotal moment in our Church history, don’t just observe the conclave – understand it, experience it, and pray through it with Relevant Radio at Conclave2025.com.