What Pope Francis means to younger Catholics

By Jason DeRose

Published April 21, 2025 at 5:32 PM EDT

Catholics who grew up in the faith under Francis reflect on his tenure as pope.

Jason DeRose

Jason DeRose is the Western Bureau Chief for NPR News, based at NPR West in Culver City. He edits news coverage from Member station reporters and freelancers in California, Washington, Oregon, Nevada, Alaska and Hawaii. DeRose also edits coverage of religion and LGBTQ issues for the National Desk.

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What Pope Francis means to younger Catholics