A Tribute to a Pastoral Heart: Justin Welby on Pope Francis

In a heartfelt tribute, former Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby has described Pope Francis as “mischievous, kind, and extraordinarily empathetic”, recalling their encounters and the profound impact of Francis’ pastoral approach. Writing for Anglican Ink, Welby shared his experiences with Francis, highlighting the pope’s humility, warmth, and commitment to peace and reconciliation. Their first meeting set the tone for their friendship, with Francis’ playful remark about being senior to Welby by just three days showcasing his approachable and down-to-earth nature.

Welby witnessed Francis’ unwavering dedication to peace, particularly in Sudan, where the pope called for an end to war and trauma. The image of Francis kneeling at and kissing the feet of former rebel leaders and government officials, imploring them to make peace, is a powerful testament to his commitment to reconciliation. Welby’s reflections on Francis’ leadership style, shaped by his experience as head of the Anglican Communion, underscore the complexity and diversity of the global Catholic Church.

As Welby reflects on their final phone call, shortly after his resignation as Archbishop of Canterbury, he is struck by Francis’ pastoral heart. The former Archbishop describes Francis as someone who made people want to know God and God’s love, passionate for God, and supremely relational. Despite his imperfections, Francis’ legacy will be shaped by his ability to connect with people from all walks of life, treating them as brothers and sisters in Christ. His impact on the Church and the world will be felt for generations to come.