Pope Francis, the first pope from Latin America, died on Monday at the age of 88. Beloved for his kind nature and strong commitment to the marginalized, he gained the admiration of millions worldwide. However, his sharp criticism of capitalism and strong views on climate change drew disapproval from conservatives.
Cardinal Kevin Ferrell, the Vatican’s camerlengo, announced, “At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of his Church.” Following the news, church bells rang across Rome in mourning.
Francis had long suffered from lung problems, having lost part of one lung in his youth. On February 14, 2025, he was hospitalized at Gemelli Hospital after a respiratory crisis that developed into double pneumonia. He remained hospitalized for 38 days, making it the longest hospital stay of his 12-year papacy.
From the moment he began his ministry, Francis brought a new tone to the papacy, beginning with his first humble greeting, “Buonasera” (“Good evening”). He distanced himself from papal extravagance and focused on humility, mercy, and service to the poor and oppressed—helping the Church rebuild trust amid scandals and criticism.
Elected on March 13, 2013, after Pope Benedict XVI’s unexpected resignation, the Argentine-born Jorge Mario Bergoglio brought new life to a Church facing dwindling influence. His leadership prioritized reform, inclusion, and reaching beyond traditional boundaries.
Despite his popularity, Francis’s time as pope included controversy. His efforts to engage LGBTQ+ Catholics and restrict traditionalist liturgies upset many conservatives. One major challenge came in 2018, when his poor handling of a clergy abuse scandal in Chile revived anger about the Church’s past failures.
Known for his connection with people and his outreach to the world's neglected areas, Francis also had to lead during the global COVID-19 pandemic. With the Vatican in lockdown, he addressed the world from isolation, urging reflection on the inequalities exposed by the crisis.
In a striking moment in March 2020, he stood alone in an empty, rain-soaked St. Peter’s Square and reminded humanity, “We have realized that we are on the same boat, all of us fragile and disoriented.” He called for unity and support, emphasizing our shared need for compassion.
Through his leadership, Pope Francis reshaped the role of the pope—replacing grandeur with humility and centering the Church on justice, empathy, and human dignity. He leaves behind a legacy of connecting faith with humanity’s deepest struggles, bringing the Church closer to those often overlooked.
