As the world reflects on the passing of Pope Francis, many are remembering not just the man, but the way he chose to lead. Catherine Toomey, an Australian journalist who spent nearly a decade working at the Vatican, spoke with Rise & Shine about her personal reflections from her time in Rome. Catherine believes Pope Francis led a life marked by simplicity and service.
“He truly believed in trusting the Lord and doing what he was called to,” Catherine said. “The Holy Spirit was calling him to go to his people. And he went, no matter what.”
She also remembered how Pope Francis would often drive himself through the streets of Rome in a small Fiat, visiting shelters and ministering to the poor. “He didn’t need an audience to put on a show. He just didn’t care about appearances, he cared about people.”
Simplicity and Service
But one of the lasting impressions Pope Francis leaves is his approachable leadership style, and a life marked by simplicity and service. “He’ll be known as the Pope of Synodality,” Catherine said. “He invited all members of the Church to journey together, to listen to each other, and to listen to the voice of the Holy Spirit.”
Unlike some of his predecessors, Francis made structural changes to ensure voices from all corners of the Church were heard. “It was a very intentional approach,” she said. “He really lived it out. Even if it meant taking to the streets in his own car.”
Looking Ahead
But with the papacy now vacant, attention turns to the process of selecting the next pope. Catherine explained that while the conclave typically begins after nine days of mourning, preparations have quietly been underway.
“We’ve been anticipating this for some time,” she said. “Although any baptised Catholic can become pope, it’s usually someone from among the cardinals. But really, who knows what the Holy Spirit will do?”
Catherine shared her hope that the next leader might come from the developing world. “I’d love to see an African pope,” she said. “They’ve got such a relevant way of communicating, especially with young people.”
A Time of Prayer and Expectation
Before the conclave begins, the Church enters nine days of mourning. Interestingly, many young families are already in Rome for what was supposed to be the canonisation of Carlo Acutis, a beloved teenager and modern-day role model. With that now postponed, they’ll instead be gathering in prayer during this historic moment.
“It’s an emotional and sacred time,” Catherine said. “There will be nine days of prayer before we can bring the conclave together and start the voting process. And that’s why they have the crying room right next to the papal balcony. Because the weight of the world is on their shoulders as they step forth.”
As the Church then looks to the future, Catherine says it’s a moment for all believers to come together in prayer. “Let’s pray that the Holy Spirit would lead with wisdom. It’s something every Christian can lean into, not just Catholics.”
Listen to Catherine’s full interview on Rise & Shine below:
