NOTE: Drew Mariani is currently on pilgrimage to Lourdes and Fatima and will return from Europe on May 1, 2025.

On a special edition of The Drew Mariani Show, Ed Morrissey welcomed Fr. Rocky to share his reflections on the death of Pope Francis and what lies ahead for the Catholic Church.

Fr. Rocky began by recalling the emotional moment the world learned of Pope Francis’ passing, just one day after he appeared, visibly frail but joyful, in St. Peter’s Square on Easter Sunday. “He gave of himself to the very last drop,” Fr. Rocky said. “He was like a lemon squeezed out completely in service to the Church.”

Reflecting on Pope Francis’ legacy, Fr. Rocky described him as a “shepherd with a heart for the people.” From the moment he greeted the world with a simple “buonasera” from the balcony in 2013, his tone was pastoral and humble. His choice of the name Francis reflected his embrace of simplicity and mercy, following in the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi. His decision to live in a modest two-room apartment rather than the papal palace underscored his deep commitment to humility and accessibility.

Fr. Rocky highlighted the Holy Father’s fierce defense of life, noting that Pope Francis used strong language against abortion, continuing the legacy of his predecessors. He also emphasized Pope Francis’ devotion to the Blessed Mother, particularly through his frequent visits to Santa Maria Maggiore, where he will be buried, and his worldwide consecration of Russia and Ukraine to the Immaculate Heart of Mary.

Looking ahead, Fr. Rocky noted the Church’s nine-day period of mourning, Novemdiales, and the upcoming conclave. He underscored the need for prayer as the cardinals discern the next successor to St. Peter. “Whoever the next pope is,” he said, “we will love him, pray for him, and obey him.”

Despite the sorrow, Fr. Rocky observed a rising spiritual revival in the Church—one seen in packed Easter Vigils, the National Eucharistic Congress, and the growing power of Catholic media. “People are waking up,” he said. “They want something real… and they’re finding it in the Catholic Church.”

In Pope Francis’ final request, Fr. Rocky reminded listeners of his simple appeal: Pray for me. And so the Church does—grateful for his life, and hopeful for what comes next.

Stay tuned to Relevant Radio and the Relevant Radio App for continued coverage and reflections on the life and legacy of Pope Francis. For more information on the conclave, sign up here to receive updates.