The word legacy has been echoing in my heart lately. It’s something we often think about at funerals or anniversaries, but really, it’s something we live every day—sometimes without even realizing it.

The world is bidding farewell to Pope Francis, a figure whose quiet strength, deep compassion, and unwavering commitment to justice marked a significant chapter in the life of the Church. He didn’t just lead with words—he led with example. Whether it was standing with the marginalized, challenging indifference, or embracing the poor, Pope Francis reminded us of what it means to live the Gospel in the modern world. Though he is no longer with us, his legacy is very much alive in the Church, and hopefully, in us.

But legacy isn’t just something that belongs to popes or presidents. Each of us carries the influence of those who have gone before—parents, grandparents, friends, mentors—people who lived their values quietly but powerfully. Maybe they didn’t make headlines, but they did make an impression. Their kindness, their courage, their faith—that’s what remains.

I remember speaking to a man recently who, after being away from the Church for many years, said, “Father, I feel lost. I missed out on so much.” There was a deep sense of regret in his voice. But I gently reminded him of the parable of the Prodigal Son—how the father didn’t scold or shame, but ran to meet his son with open arms. That’s how our God works. It’s never too late. His embrace is always waiting.

As Catholics, our greatest hope is rooted in the Resurrection. Jesus didn’t just leave teachings behind—he left us a living promise: that life is stronger than death, love is stronger than hate, and grace always has the final word. That’s a legacy that reshapes everything.

So perhaps now is a good time to ask ourselves: What legacy am I living? What values am I standing for, even when the world pushes against them? Am I becoming a source of light, hope, and truth for someone else?

This isn’t a time to be stuck in regret or frustration. This is a time to return, rebuild, and reimagine what our lives can become—grounded in love, rooted in faith, and open to the grace that God so generously offers.

We are a people who leave something beautiful behind—not just in memory, but in how we live every day.