The world mourns the passing of Pope Francis, the 266th pontiff of the Catholic Church, who died on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis was a trailblazer in many ways, becoming the first Latin American leader of the Roman Catholic Church and the first Jesuit pope
A Life of Service and Dedication
Pope Francis’ life was marked by a deep commitment to social justice, dialogue with the modern world, and a progressive stance on issues that divided traditional Catholics. He was elected in 2013 following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI and went on to leave an indelible mark on the Catholic Church. Despite struggling with various health issues, including double pneumonia and respiratory problems, Francis remained dedicated to his duties until his final weeks ³ ¹.
Key Aspects of His Papacy
– Social Justice and Environmental Stewardship*: Pope Francis was a vocal advocate for the poor and the marginalized. He also raised awareness about climate change, emphasizing the need for sustainable living and environmental protection.
– Inclusivity and Compassion: Francis sought to make the Catholic Church more welcoming and inclusive, particularly for women and LGBTQ+ individuals. He called for the decriminalization of homosexuality and encouraged dialogue with people from diverse backgrounds.
– Reform and Modernization: During his papacy, Francis implemented significant reforms, including new legislation on clergy sexual abuse. However, some critics argue that more needs to be done to address transparency and accountability within the Church.
A Lasting Legacy.
Pope Francis’ passing marks the end of an era and leaves the Catholic Church at a crossroads. His successor will likely shape the Church’s direction for years to come. As the world pays its respects to this remarkable leader, we remember his words and actions, which inspired countless people around the globe. Francis will be buried at the Roman Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, a fitting resting place for a man who prized his independence.
In the words of Cardinal Kevin Ferrell, “His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of his Church. He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with faithfulness, courage, and universal love, especially for the poorest and most marginalized”. Alexander Afriyie