As we join the world in mourning the passing of Pope Francis, we reflect on the legacy he leaves behind—a legacy of compassion, humility, and a deep commitment to the dignity of every person, especially the poor and marginalized. His leadership reminded us that faith is not about exclusion or fear, but about mercy, accompaniment, and the tireless pursuit of justice.

At Roots of Health, we are guided by many of the same principles found in Catholic Social Teaching: the inherent worth of every human being, the importance of caring for others, and the belief that a just society begins with how we protect and empower those most at risk—including young people. These values are not abstractions; they shape the way we engage with families, educators, and communities in promoting honest, compassionate conversations about reproductive health.

In our work, we often encounter what seems like a delicate balance between upholding moral values and providing young people with the information they need to make responsible decisions. Some families have understandable concerns that conversations around topics like sex, contraception, or consent might not align with the values they want to pass on to their children. Yet, we’ve found that when these conversations are approached with care, empathy, and a spirit of listening—all values Pope Francis espoused—providing young people with accurate, age-appropriate knowledge about their bodies, rights, and responsibilities can empower them to live out their values with confidence and integrity. These are not just health outcomes; they are deeply moral actions rooted in love—for self, for others, and for the future.

Pope Francis called us to go to the peripheries and to serve not with judgment, but with empathy. In the Philippines, where faith deeply shapes national identity, and poverty, with all the suffering it brings, is a daily reality, it is possible—and necessary—to have conversations that bridge moral conviction with compassionate, evidence-based care.

As we mourn the passing of a spiritual leader, we honor his memory by continuing to walk with young people—sharing knowledge, building trust, and helping them shape futures rooted in dignity and hope.

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Roots of Health is a Palawan-based non-governmental organization that provides rights-based sexual and reproductive health education and services. In 15 years, it has reached over 100,000 young people through education sessions in schools and communities and trained more than 6,800 teachers in implementing comprehensive sexuality education.