Honoring Pope Francis: A Legacy That Lives Through Our Mission
With the passing of Pope Francis today, we pause to reflect on a life devoted to compassion, justice, and the dignity of every person — a life deeply connected to the mission of the Little Sisters of the Assumption and LSA Family Health Service.
“The people’s pope,” Francis grew up in a working-class neighborhood of Buenos Aires, the son of Italian immigrants who fled fascist Italy. In their time of need, it was the Little Sisters of the Assumption who entered their home to care for his family when Jorge Mario Bergoglio (Pope Francis) was born — a gesture he never forgot, and a bond that continued throughout his life and ministry.
Today in East Harlem, families come to LSA seeking hope, health, and opportunity — often immigrants themselves, determined to build better lives and lift up their community. Inspired by the legacy of Pope Francis who was a staunch advocate of the Little Sister’s mission, we stand with them in solidarity — not only offering a supportive presence and services, but working for lasting change.
Pope Francis spoke of Father Stephen Pernet, founder of the Little Sisters of the Assumption, and how “deeds of charity lead us to place our cheek onto the cheek of those who suffer, in body and spirit.” This profound compassion guided Francis throughout his papacy — whether washing the feet of prisoners, advocating for immigrants, or speaking out for all those vulnerable and in need.
When Pope Francis visited East Harlem in 2015, he reminded our community that we are seen, loved, and called to action. His humility, courage, and unwavering commitment to the most vulnerable continue to inspire our work every day.
Pope Francis called us to care not just spiritually but in tangible ways —for our neighbors, our environment, and our shared humanity. He showed us that justice and mercy go hand in hand, and that building a more just and compassionate world is not optional—it is essential.
Today, as we mourn his passing, we also recommit ourselves to the mission entrusted to us by the Little Sisters of the Assumption which he championed. We honor his legacy by continuing the work of healing, uplifting, and transforming lives in East Harlem and beyond. The work is not finished—it is only just beginning.
With gratitude and hope,
Sister Annette Allain
President, Little Sisters of the
Assumption – USA
Jonah Gensler
CEO, Little Sisters of the Assumption
Family Health Service
Learn more about Pope Francis and the Little Sisters of the Assumption:
