April 22, 2025 — The world mourns the passing of Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, who died on April 21 at age 88 following a stroke and heart failure, after battling severe pneumonia. His 12-year papacy transformed the Catholic Church and left a lasting global impact.
Born in Buenos Aires to Italian immigrants, Pope Francis rose from humble beginnings to become the first pope from the Americas and the first Jesuit to hold the office. Elected in 2013, he chose the name Francis to reflect his mission of humility, care for the poor, and stewardship of creation. His choice to live in a modest guesthouse rather than the Apostolic Palace symbolized a papacy grounded in simplicity.
A global moral voice, Francis spoke boldly on climate change, social justice, and human dignity. His 2015 encyclical Laudato Si’ called for urgent environmental action. He visited 68 countries, often focusing on war-torn areas and marginalized communities. In 2019, he became the first pope to visit the Arabian Peninsula, promoting interfaith dialogue.
His papacy brought sweeping reform: he addressed Vatican corruption, empowered laypeople and women, and took decisive action on the clergy abuse crisis. His leadership was not without controversy, as his progressive views drew both praise and criticism.
A champion of the marginalized, Francis welcomed refugees, visited prisons, and embraced LGBTQ+ individuals. His phrase, “Who am I to judge?” became a symbol of his inclusive approach. In the U.S., his 2015 address to Congress moved millions.
In his final years, the pope faced declining health, including multiple hospitalizations. In March 2025, he was diagnosed with severe pneumonia. On Easter Monday, he suffered a fatal stroke in his Vatican residence.
The Catholic Church now enters a period of mourning and awaits a new leader, but the legacy of Pope Francis endures. A pope of action and compassion, he reshaped the Church and inspired the world to walk with the poor, protect the planet, and seek peace.
Rest in peace, Holy Father. Your voice of mercy and justice lives on.