In brief
Sister Geneviève Jeanningros of the Little Sisters of Jesus shares a poignant goodbye to Pope Francis, showing a personal bond rooted in mutual support and compassion, reflecting on their longstanding friendship.
In a touching farewell, Sister Geneviève Jeanningros of the Little Sisters of Jesus stood weeping before Pope Francis's coffin as it lay in state at St. Peter’s Basilica. Captured in a heartfelt video, the elderly nun bid a tearful goodbye to her longtime friend, a moment that resonated deeply with those in attendance. Dressed in a modest blue veil that framed her silver hair, Sister Geneviève reflected on her strong connection with the pontiff, which blossomed when he was Cardinal Jorge Bergoglio in Buenos Aires. Their bond was solidified during intimate conversations where Sister Geneviève’s forthright nature often engaged him on important issues, including the pain of her family's history in Argentina’s military dictatorship. Notably, she recalled an instance where she chastised the church for its lack of representation at her aunt's funeral—a nun who was a victim of state terror. Within the same evening, a caring call from Pope Francis followed, demonstrating his personal commitment to the concerns of his flock. Until her recent relocation, Sister Geneviève had been living modestly near Rome, serving underprivileged communities from a makeshift home. Her heartfelt tribute not only highlights their unique relationship but also underscores the profound impact of compassion and advocacy within the church as experienced by its devoted members.
