Perhaps only in regaling the dead are we sufficiently circumspect and emotively staid, where our capacity to succinctly celebrate the life and times of the deceased becomes therapeutic and comforting to others (“Pope Francis, leader of hope”, DT, 22/4). Only the most humble of popes would catch a bus home after becoming heir to the throne of St Peter. Perhaps no fuss Pope Francis resonated with all Aussies as he disregarded the pomp and ceremony of his elite place in the Christian world. Brimming with a burning love of humanity, Francis evoked a strong message of us not judging each other and urged that we build more bridges in our troubled times. To that, all mankind must surely join a chorus of “Amen”. Alan Sexton, North Parramatta 23Apr2025