Pope Francis (1936-2025)
Pope Francis, the 266th Pope of the Roman Catholic Church and the first from the Americas, died on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, to Italian immigrant parents, he was known for his humility, his focus on the poor and marginalized, and his efforts to modernize the Church.
Bergoglio's early life was marked by a diverse set of experiences. He worked as a chemical technician and even a nightclub bouncer before answering his calling to the priesthood. He joined the Society of Jesus and was ordained in 1969. His time as Archbishop of Buenos Aires was defined by his advocacy for the less fortunate, and he often eschewed the traditional Archbishop's residence for a simple apartment.
Elected Pope in 2013, Pope Francis chose his papal name in honor of St. Francis of Assisi, a figure known for his poverty and love of nature. This choice signaled the direction of his papacy, which emphasized compassion, mercy, and social justice.
During his time as Pope, Francis was a vocal advocate for refugees and migrants, a staunch defender of the environment, and a critic of unbridled capitalism. He sought to make the Church more inclusive and welcoming, reaching out to those on the margins of society. His papacy was marked by a series of historic firsts and symbolic gestures, including washing the feet of prisoners and meeting with leaders of other faiths.
Pope Francis's legacy is one of a transformative leader who sought to bring the Church closer to the people, address the challenges of the 21st century, and promote a message of love and unity to the world. He will be remembered for his warmth, his accessibility, and his unwavering commitment to building a more just and compassionate world.
He is survived by the world's 1.3 billion Catholics and countless others who were inspired by his message of hope and inclusion.
Epitaph:
A shepherd of the poor, a voice for the voiceless, and a champion of unity, he leaves behind a world touched by his compassion and love.