Pope Francis' Legacy brings together expert voices in interdisciplinary reflection

In a space for discussion and analysis, the Querida Amazonía group organized a panel discussion with prominent panelists from Latin America and specialists in Christian social doctrine.

On April 25, 2025, the roundtable discussion entitled "Impressions and Legacy of Pope Francis" was held, organized by the Querida Amazonía group and moderated by Dr. María Elizabeth de los Ríos Uriarte, professor and researcher at the School of Bioethics at Anáhuac University, Mexico.

The panel brought together renowned voices from the ecclesiastical, academic, and social spheres, such as Monsignor Lizardo Estrada Herrera, secretary general of the Latin American and Caribbean Episcopal Council (CELAM); Dr. María Luisa Aspe Armella, member of the Center for Interdisciplinary Studies (CEID) and expert in Christian Social Doctrine; Dr. José Sols Lucia, a professor at the Universidad Iberoamericana who has played a prominent role in disseminating the papal legacy in the media; Father Juan Roger, from the University of Los Angeles in Chimbote, Peru; and Professor Jovani Fernández Puentes, an academic and researcher at the Universidad Anáhuac México, who offered an insight into the message and actions of Pope Francis's pontificate.

During the conversation, Pope Francis's pastoral style was highlighted, characterized by his closeness to people, his simplicity, and profound social sensitivity. They also discussed how throughout his pontificate he demonstrated a constant interest in global issues such as migration, environmental care, promoting the role of women within the Church, and strengthening community ties.

One of the central themes of the dialogue was his repeated call for an "outgoing Church": a Church open to the world, open to dialogue with the concrete reality of people, ready to accompany them in their daily challenges. In this regard, the panelists emphasized his ability to listen to different voices within the ecclesial community, as well as his commitment to opening spaces for participation, reflection, and shared decision-making.

Likewise, the challenge of transforming an ancient institution like the Church was reflected upon. In this regard, it was acknowledged that Pope Francis' actions have not been immediate structural reforms, but rather the opening of processes and a profound change in the ecclesial mentality. This transformation is reflected in a new way of living the faith and relating to others, with a constant call to share responsibility in ecclesial life and to place service above any form of power.

The panel concluded with heartfelt thanks to Pope Francis, recognizing the human, spiritual, and social impact of his pontificate. Beyond individual positions or interpretations, participants expressed genuine admiration for his ability to listen, his closeness, and his constant invitation to live the faith with simplicity, commitment, and openness to others.