The pope pushed for leaders and followers to build bridges and connect with people, something Father Jimmy Drennan lives by.
SAN ANTONIO — Father Jimmy Drennan, pastor of St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church says Pope Francis’ love of people has reshaped his priesthood.
“Touching my heart and inspiring me to be the best possible priest I can be, came from Pope Francis,” said Drennan.
Father Drennan says he got to connect with Pope Francis last year.
“It was a fantastic experience because he had already imparted his blessing upon the work of COPS/Metro Alliance here in San Antonio,” he said. “We have been able to cultivate and develop that relationship and receive his guidance.”
Drennan was carrying something the day he met with Pope Francis that he says still holds dear to his heart.
“He blessed a cross that I have in one of those photographs,” Drennan said. “It was given to me when I was ordained. It was worn by my mother. It is a cross that I have carried in my priesthood and my desire was to give it to him. His desire was to bless it as I continue to wear it, as a reminder of my priestly call.”
One of Father Drennan’s godsons is wearing that cross right now. He says although Pope Francis has passed away, his impact and teachings will live forever.
“Lifting up the least and the last, the forgotten and the outcast has been an incredible influence on the work that we do,” he said.