When the news came that Pope Francis had passed away, I was surprised by how peaceful I felt. No panic, no sadness—just deep gratitude. Gratitude for a man who, without ever knowing me personally, changed my life as a priest more than anyone else has.

In this week’s podcast, I reflect on what Pope Francis meant to me—not as a celebrity or a headline—but as a father figure, a shepherd who showed me a different way of being a priest.

What struck me most about him wasn’t his position. It was his way of being:

Always close to the people, especially those at the margins.

Unafraid to show his own vulnerability and humanity.

Leading not with power, but with humility and tenderness.

Constantly reminding us: “Go, make some mess! Don’t play it safe.”

I share the story of standing on St. Peter’s Square the night he was elected, hearing that simple “Buona sera” that told me everything I needed to know about the heart of this Pope. I also talk about why, this time, I decided not to jump on a plane to Rome like I did in the past. Why my place right now is not in the Vatican media circus—but here, with you, sharing my memories and my gratitude.

This is not an analysis of his papacy. It’s personal. It’s about how Pope Francis gave me the courage to step outside my comfort zone, to be a shepherd not just for those inside the church walls, but for everyone I meet—including the geeks, the gamers, the dreamers, the lonely.

If you’ve ever wondered what true leadership looks like—or if you’re struggling to keep hope alive in a messy world—I invite you to listen.