The late pontiff embraced those traditionally on the margins of the church and society. Here, some of those he met describe his impact

• Pope Francis funeral: latest updates

Pope Francis announced his pastoral intentions from the very beginning of his papacy, saying he preferred a church that was “bruised, hurting and dirty” from being on the streets to one that was cautious and complacent. Although he never strayed from doctrine – to the annoyance of many optimistic liberals – his 12 years as pope were marked by a deliberate embrace of those historically on the margins of the church and society. He wanted a church, he said, for “todos, todos, todos” – which translates into: “Everyone, everyone, everyone.”

Here, some of those who met him recall what his pontificate meant to them.