Pope Francis, who was known for his humble style and concern for the poor, died Monday at age 88. After being hospitalized earlier this year with double pneumonia, the pope emerged from his convalescence on Easter Sunday — his last public appearance, a day before his death — to bless thousands of people in St. Peter’s Square.

Maryland Catholics, whether they had disagreements with the Roman Catholic Church or not, remember Pope Francis as a humble priest who lifted up the needs and suffering of common people above all else. He spoke about the need to confront climate change, criticized the Trump administration’s plan for mass deportations and allowed the blessing of same-sex couples.

The first pope from South America, Pope Francis was a Jesuit who was seen as wanting to bring a different perspective to his work. “I think a lot of people found this pope different. He was more accessible and relatable,” said Bill McCarthy, the executive director of Catholic Charities.

The story continues at The Baltimore Banner: For Maryland Catholics, Pope Francis opened doors: ‘People found this pope different’

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