The world feels quieter today: UAE Filipino community mourn the passing of Pope Francis

Dubai: The world is mourning the loss of Pope Francis, who died peacefully at 88. As news of his death rippled across continents, heartfelt tributes poured in from leaders, faithful followers, and ordinary citizens whose lives he touched. In the United Arab Emirates, where a growing Filipino community holds deep spiritual ties to the Catholic faith, the sense of grief is deeply personal.

Olga Barcelona, a seasoned professional and currently the Partner and Head of Operations at a leading advertising company in Dubai, was one among the millions who flew to the Vatican to see the Pope. She attended a Holy Mass at the Vatican in 2023. "Almost two hours of waiting but it's worth the wait to see the Pope in person," she said.

Barcelona recalled a personal and moving experience with the late pontiff. "I am very saddened by this news. I was fortunate enough to have heard mass from Pope Francis two years ago. He was the voice of the poor and underprivileged," she said, reflecting on the Pope’s legacy of compassion and advocacy for the marginalized. 

A Filipina expatriate in HR Aviation Dubai, Karen Sinclair, captured the sombre mood with a few poignant words: “The world feels quieter today. His death leaves a void not only in the Vatican but in the hearts of countless people worldwide, Catholic or not, who saw in him a rare kind of leader: one who led with gentleness, humility, and love."

"His death is a moment of grief and, perhaps, a moment to reflect on what he taught us: faith without kindness is hollow, humility is strength, and there is always room in the Church and the world for those who feel lost."

Pope Francis once said, “Rivers do not drink their own water; trees do not eat their fruit... Life is lived for others.”

"And he did just that. He lived for others, for us. Rest gently, Papa Francis. Thank you for walking with us. We will miss you deeply," said Karen.

Meanwhile, Janice Puentesfina , Regulatory Affairs Manager, Dubai, said: "The sorrow felt of the passing of Pope Francis, for me is like a child who lost a parent. He's been the father to the Christian Catholic people, the glue that bind us all together."

Another Filipino expat based in Dubai, Fermel Fuentes, 42, Research and Executive Administrator in Renewable Energy, reflected on the Pope’s lasting influence.

“The passing of Pope Francis is a profound loss not only for the Catholic community but for the entire world. He was a beacon of humility, compassion, and interfaith dialogue. His historic visit to the UAE and his message of peace and coexistence left an indelible mark on all of us. I feel incredibly honoured to have witnessed his visit and experienced the grace of his presence," said Fuentes.

"May his legacy inspire hope, unity, and love across all nations and faiths," added Fuentes.