Pope Francis Dies at 88: A Legacy of Humility, Reform, and Global Compassion

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, the 266th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church and the first Latin American and Jesuit pope, passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. His death was announced by Cardinal Kevin Ferrell from the chapel of the Domus Sanctae Marthae, the Pope’s residence in Vatican City.​ ​

Pope Francis died on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88 at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta. pic.twitter.com/jUIkbplVi2

— Vatican News (@VaticanNews) April 21, 2025

Early Life and Rise to the Papacy

Bergoglio was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on December 17, 1936. He joined the Society of Jesus in 1958 and was ordained a priest in 1969. In 1998, he was appointed Archbishop of Buenos Aires, and he was promoted to cardinal in 2001. Following Pope Benedict XVI‘s retirement, Bergoglio was elected pope on March 13, 2013, and took the name Francis in honour of St. Francis of Assisi. ​

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Health Challenges and Final Days

Pope Francis has suffered several health issues during his life, including the removal of a portion of one lung when he was younger. In February 2025, he was hospitalised with a respiratory crisis that developed into double pneumonia.

Despite a period of recovery, he passed away on April 21, 2025, at 7:35 a.m. His final public appearance was on Easter Sunday, April 20, where he delivered a blessing to thousands in St. Peter’s Square.​

Papal Reforms and Global Impact

Emphasis on Humility and Service

From the start of his reign, Pope Francis stressed how humble he was by choosing to stay in the guesthouse Domus Sanctae Marthae instead of the Apostolic Palace. He was known for living a simple life, which included dressing quietly and driving a small car.

Social and Environmental Advocacy

Pope Francis fought hard for the poor and the outcast, and he spoke out against things like economic unfairness, climate change, and immigration. In his encyclical Laudato Si’, which came out in 2015, he called for quick action to protect the earth and fight climate change.

Church Reforms

He made big changes in the Vatican that made it more open and responsible. He also tried to stop the widespread sexual abuse by setting up a panel to protect children and making bishops responsible for wrongdoing. ​

Interfaith Dialogue and Global Outreach

Pope Francis made interfaith work a priority and formed relationships with religious leaders from other faiths. He made important trips to countries with big Muslim populations, like the United Arab Emirates and Iraq, to promote peace and understanding between people. ​

Legacy and Tributes

Pope Francis leaves a legacy of kindness, humility, and dedication to social justice. World leaders and religious people have praised his life and achievements. He was recognised as “an inspiration beyond the Catholic Church” by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. ​

Deeply pained by the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. In this hour of grief and remembrance, my heartfelt condolences to the global Catholic community. Pope Francis will always be remembered as a beacon of compassion, humility and spiritual courage by millions across the… pic.twitter.com/QKod5yTXrB

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 21, 2025

Funeral Arrangements

Details about Pope Francis’ funeral have yet to be published. Traditionally, when a pope dies, a nine-day mourning period known as the novemdiales begins, culminating in a funeral Mass attended by worldwide leaders and devout.

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Conclusion

A deep dedication to humility, social justice, and ecumenical communication distinguished Pope Francis’ presidency. His attempts to reform the Church and solve global issues have made a lasting impression on the globe. ​