As the University of Santo Tomas (UST) joined the world in mourning the passing of Pope Francis, it reflected on his historic 2015 visit—highlighting his enduring legacy of mercy, humility, and inclusivity that continues to inspire the Thomasian community and beyond.

In a statement, UST expressed its “deep sorrow and profound reverence” as it joined the Universal Church and the world in mourning the passing of Pope Francis — fondly called “Lolo Kiko” by Filipinos.

Pope Francis, 88, passed away on April 21, 2025, as confirmed by the Vatican. Since 2013, he had held the esteemed position of the 266th pope of the Roman Catholic Church.

“May the soul of our beloved Holy Father, Pope Francis, our Lolo Kiko, rest in the peace of Christ, whom he faithfully served,” UST said, as it enjoined the entire community to “continue to uphold his legacy of faith, hope, and love in our lives and mission as Thomasians.”

A leader like no other

As the world reflects on Pope Francis’ remarkable contributions, UST honored the values he embodied—leading with compassion, embracing diverse communities, and advocating for justice.

“Throughout his papacy, Pope Francis embodied the Gospel values of mercy, humility, and inclusivity,” UST said.

Pope Francis’ enduring impact, UST said, continues to inspire generations, making him a revered symbol of faith, service, and unity in both the Church and society.

“As the first pope from the Americas and the first Jesuit pope, he inspired millions with his deep compassion for the poor and marginalized, his call for ecological conversion, his pastoral leadership in times of local and global crises—whether it be human rights, armed conflict, or social justice—and his unwavering commitment to dialogue and peace,” UST said.

UST noted that Pope Francis continued the Church’s “long-standing advocacy for social justice and made prominent the missionary nature of the Church.”

“In the latter part of his pontificate, he made a clear emphasis on the need to walk and journey together, as pilgrims of hope, and led the institutionalization of synodality,” UST said.

A decade later

Being a Pontifical University, UST said its leadership and governance “bear the blessings” of the Holy See.

“Yet Pope Francis, like his predecessors, went beyond governance to minister to Asia’s pioneer university,” UST said.

On January 18, 2015, Pope Francis visited UST and asked for the Lord’s blessing “for all those who work for a culture of encounter” on the campus.

“The Pontiff met with religious leaders of various faith groups and the youth of the Catholic Church in what will remain a historic moment in our story as a university,” UST said.