In a heartfelt reflection shared with Vatican News, Sister Norma Pimentel, one of the United States' most prominent advocates for migrant rights, recalled the deeply personal encouragement she received from the late Pope Francis — a man she called both a spiritual father and friend.
“He once looked at me and said, ‘Te quiero mucho’ — ‘I love you.’ Those words, simple as they were, became a charge,” Sr. Norma said, her voice thick with emotion. “He told me to keep going, to keep serving, and those words have never left me.”
As Executive Director of Catholic Charities of the Rio Grande Valley, Sr. Pimentel has spent over a decade offering humanitarian aid to migrants along the U.S.-Mexico border. Her work, which includes providing shelter, food, medical assistance, and legal support, caught the attention of Pope Francis early in his pontificate. In 2020, her efforts earned her a place on Time magazine’s list of the 100 Most Influential People.
Following the Pope's passing, Sr. Norma spoke about the profound impact his support had on her mission — and on countless others. “He left us with a responsibility,” she said. “To defend life, to uplift the marginalized, and to give others the embrace God gives us.”
Sr. Pimentel reflected on her long-standing relationship with the Holy Father, who she said consistently elevated the voices of the poor and vulnerable — and never failed to shine a light on the work of religious sisters.
“He made us visible,” she noted. “He saw us — the women of the Church — and publicly thanked us. That recognition meant the world. It wasn’t just about me. It was about every sister in every corner of the globe offering love and service to those in need.”
In May 2024, Sr. Pimentel delivered a keynote at the 2nd General Assembly of Talitha Kum in Rome, highlighting her fight against human trafficking and her continued advocacy for displaced persons. She said Pope Francis’ presence continues to guide her, even in his absence.
“Our work at the border isn’t just a response — it’s a calling,” she said. “And Pope Francis was that voice urging us forward, reminding us to meet each person with dignity. He might be gone in body, but he remains alive in our mission.”
As thousands around the world mourn the death of the Holy Father, Sr. Norma says his legacy is far from over. “He sealed us with a mission — to carry compassion where there is suffering, and to never, ever turn away those in need.”