Pope Francis, the 266th Pontiff and the First Latin American Pope, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, passed away on April 2, 2025, at the age of 88 in Vatican City. His death occurred at 7:35 a.m. local time at his residence, the Domus Sanctae Marthae, following a stroke that led to coma and heart failure.
Born on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, to Italian immigrant parents, Bergoglio was ordained a priest in 1969. He served as the Archbishop of Buenos Aires from 1998 and was elevated to cardinal in 2001 by Pope John Paul II. On March 13, 2013, he was elected the 266th pope, becoming the first Jesuit and Pontiff from the Americas.
Pope Francis was renowned for his humility and commitment to social justice. He emphasized compassion, inclusivity, and the Church’s responsibility to the marginalized. His papacy addressed climate change, economic inequality, and the refugee crisis. He also advocated for civil unions for same-sex couples and condemned the death penalty.
Despite health challenges, including a lung infection in his youth and more recent issues like pneumonia and kidney problems, Pope Francis remained active in his duties. He delivered his final Easter blessing from a wheelchair, symbolizing his enduring dedication.
In a departure from tradition, Pope Francis requested a modest funeral. He will be buried in the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome, foregoing the customary triple-coffin burial. His body will lie in a plain coffin, and the funeral is scheduled to take place in St. Peter’s Square between the fourth and sixth day following his death.
Global leaders have expressed their condolences. King Charles reflected on his final meeting with the Pope, highlighting his legacy of compassion and unity.
The Vatican has announced that the College of Cardinals will convene soon to elect its successor.
Pope Francis’s tenure marked a transformative period for the Catholic Church, characterized by a focus on empathy, reform, and engagement with contemporary global issues.
Let us dig deeper into the history of the 266th Pontiff.
Many people have preconceived notions about the papacy and its leaders, often overlooking the personal stories and challenges that define them. These notions can be rooted in misconceptions or a lack of understanding about the role of the Pope. People may view the Pope as a figurehead, detached from the real world, without considering the person behind the title. The Pope has experiences, emotions, and motivations that shape his decisions and actions. By looking into the life of Pope Francis, we can gain a deeper understanding of what drives him and how he has become the leader he is today.
Pope Francis’s background is complex and has significantly shaped his views. He was born in Argentina, a country with a rich history and culture. Growing up in this environment profoundly shaped his perspective on social issues, including poverty and inequality. His experiences have shaped his progressive views, making him a distinctive figure within the Catholic Church. Pope Francis’s journey through the clergy has also been marked by significant events that have influenced his mission.
Delve into Pope Francis’s early life in Argentina: His journey through the clergy and how his experiences have informed his progressive views on social issues, such as poverty and climate change. His early life was characterized by a strong sense of social justice, instilled in him by his family and community. As he progressed through the clergy, he became increasingly aware of the need for the Church to address social issues. This awareness has driven his mission to make the Church more inclusive and socially aware.
A pivotal moment in his papacy was his visit to the U.S.-Mexico border, where he highlighted the struggles of migrants and the need for compassion and understanding. This event reflects his priorities and values, showcasing his commitment to social justice. His encyclical on climate change has also been significant, emphasizing the need for collective action to protect the environment. These events demonstrate how Pope Francis’s experiences have shaped his mission and informed his decisions as the leader of the Catholic Church.
Pope Francis’s visit to the U.S.-Mexico border was a powerful statement about the need for empathy and understanding in the face of social injustice. His actions and words have inspired many people worldwide, and his commitment to social justice has made him a prominent figure in global discussions. The encyclical on climate change has also sparked important conversations about the Church’s role in addressing environmental issues. Pope Francis has demonstrated his willingness to challenge conventional wisdom and push for positive change by taking a strong stance on these issues.
Pope Francis’s background and experiences have shaped his mission to make the Church more inclusive and socially aware. His commitment to social justice and his willingness to challenge conventional wisdom have made him a unique and important figure in the Catholic Church.
