Pope Francis Dies at 88
Pope Francis, the beloved head of the Catholic Church, passed away on April 21 at age 88 following a stroke and cardiocirculatory collapse. Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, he was the first Latin American pope and led the Church for 12 years, known for his humility, progressive views, and advocacy for the poor, immigrants, and climate action.
His papacy, while praised for modernization efforts, also faced criticism, particularly around the Church’s abuse scandals. Despite health issues, Francis never planned to resign, stating he still had many projects to complete.
Francis requested a modest burial at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, not the Vatican, with only the name “Franciscus” on his tomb. In his final testament, he asked that his suffering be offered for global peace and unity.