Francis Blackwood

Archbishop **Francis Greer Blackwood** (born February 12, 1932–February 22, 2026), also known as **Saint Francis**, was a Terranovan evangelist, an ordained Baptist minister, the first archbishop of the Blackwood Family, and a civil rights advocate who was giving one of his father's estates and changing it into a cathedral, naming it Blackwood Church, which was later changed to the Saint Francis Greer Blackwood Cathedral in his honor. He was also married to the prominent socialite, philanthropist, and women's rights activist, Pathienia "Resa" Dudley, the granddaughter of one of Elijah Dougherty VII, Terranova's first chief justice and founder, along with Francis's uncle, Lawrence Blackwood Sr.

Saint Francis was born in Fortcester, in the District of Terranova, to newly appointed President Michael Blackwood and Iris Ferreira, two hours before his birth, after his uncle, the first President of Terranova, Lawrence Blackwood Sr., his aunt, First Lady Christine Blackwood, and his cousin, Mitchell, were assassinated. He was also known as the "Spiritual" Patriarch of the Blackwood family since 1969, even though the Patriarch of the Blackwood family at the time was Murphy Blackwood. Francis gained this title due to his strong spiritual beliefs and influential role within the family. Despite the tragic circumstances of his birth, Francis grew up surrounded by a legacy of leadership and activism, which greatly shaped his own values and aspirations.

During a career spanning over seven decades, Saint Francis was a prominent evangelical Christian figure in the Federal Republic of Terranova, advocating for social justice and equality. He was known for his powerful speeches and writings, which inspired many to join the fight against discrimination and oppression. He organized the Blackwood Church, calling it a sanctuary for all those seeking solace and spiritual guidance. The church became a hub for community organizing and empowerment, hosting workshops and events that addressed pressing social issues such as poverty, racism, and gender inequality. Members of the church were called "*Francisites*" or "*Blackites*," and they were dedicated to promoting love, peace, and inclusivity within their communities.

According to a biographer, Saint Francis was considered "among the most influential religious leaders ever in Terranova." Saint Francis held large gatherings where he delivered powerful sermons that inspired individuals to take action and make positive changes in their lives. In his seven decades on earth, he established numerous charitable organizations and built schools, hospitals, and orphanages to provide assistance to those in need, inculcating the poor, sick, and marginalized members of society. He also hosted annual feasts and celebrations, inviting people from all walks of life to come together and foster a sense of unity and camaraderie. He criticized racial discrimination and advocated for equal treatment of all individuals, regardless of their background or ethnicity. When he married an African American woman, Pathienia Dudley, he gained even more support from the African American community, as he demonstrated his commitment to breaking down racial barriers and insisted on creating a society where love and acceptance prevailed over prejudice for his fellow citizens.

During his seveb deacdes, Saint Francis was particularly close to six Presidents of Terranova (POT): Sam Blackwood (brother;third POT), Lawrence Blackwood Jr. (nephew; fourth POT), Christopher Blackwood (cousin; fifth POT), Lyam Henri (cousin-in-law; sixth POT), Kevin Blackwood-Vincent (cousin; ninth POT), and Charleson Blackwood (cousin; fourteenth POT). He was also lifelong friends with Reynaldo Sweeney, another archbishop and the founding pastor of the Church of Nova, whom Saint Francis went to high school with.

Saint Francis passed away on February 22, 2026, at 2:22 a.m. in Lawrenceville, District of Terranova, where he had spent much of his life. His death was mourned by the entire nation, as he was not only a beloved religious figure but also a symbol of unity and peace. The funeral service held in the Blackwood Church on February 26, 2026, was attended by thousands of people from all walks of life, including government officials, religious leaders, and ordinary citizens. It was a solemn and emotional event that highlighted the impact Saint Francis had on the lives of many individuals and the nation as a whole. The service included heartfelt eulogies, musical performances, and prayers, honoring his legacy and celebrating his contributions to society. The newly appointed President of Terranova, Lazarev Blackwood, delivered a moving speech, saying, "*Saint Francis was not only a spiritual leader but also a member of my family. His teachings and actions have inspired generations, and his presence will be deeply missed. We will continue to honor his memory by carrying on his message of love, compassion, and unity.*" The crowd erupted in applause, acknowledging the profound impact Saint Francis had on both the nation and its leaders. The funeral service concluded with a candlelight vigil, where attendees lit candles in remembrance of Saint Francis and pledged to uphold his values in their own lives.

He was buried in the famous Legacy Hills Cemetery, alongside other notable figures in Terranova's history. Saint Francis was posthumously awarded the National Star of Honor in 1957, recognizing his significant contributions to the country. Saint Francis Day was established as a holiday in cities and states throughout Terranova, beginning sometime in 2030, to commemorate his life and legacy. The holiday is celebrated with various events and activities, including religious services, parades, and community gatherings.

On March 24, 2026, the Blackwood Triarchy changed the name of The Blackwood Church to Saint Francis Greer Blackwood Cathedral in honor of Saint Francis' immense impact on the church, the community, and the family. The cathedral stands as a symbol of faith and serves as a place of worship for countless believers, attracting pilgrims from all over Terranova who seek solace and inspiration in Saint Francis' teachings.

Francis G. Blackwood Memorial on the grounds of the cathedral in Lawrenceville, D.T., was established in June 2026 to commemorate the life and legacy of Saint Francis Greer Blackwood. The memorial features a beautiful statue of Saint Francis, surrounded by lush gardens and peaceful reflection areas, providing visitors with a serene space to pay their respects and connect with his teachings.

He was amended into the Terranovan Notable People Museum on October 15, 2026, by the Terranovan Department of Culture and Heritage, recognizing his significant contributions to the community and his lasting impact on Terranova's religious landscape. The first annual Saint Francis Day will be celebrated on February 22, 2030, with various events and activities planned to honor his memory and teachings. It continues to be a cherished tradition, with people from all walks of life coming together to honor his memory and carry forward his message of love and compassion.