Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, passed away on April 21, 2025, at 88. As the 266th Pope of the Catholic Church, he was a transformative figure who left an indelible mark on the world.

Pope Francis, the son of Italian immigrants, grew up with a deep sense of faith and humility. His early life was marked by resilience, as he overcame health challenges and worked as a bouncer before joining the Jesuit order in 1958. Ordained as a priest in 1969, he rose through the ranks to become the Archbishop of Buenos Aires and later a Cardinal in 2001.

Elected Pope in 2013, he was the first from the Americas, the first Jesuit, and the first to take the name Francis in honor of St. Francis of Assisi. His papacy was defined by a commitment to social justice, environmental stewardship, and a focus on the marginalized. He championed reforms within the Church, addressed the climate crisis through his encyclical Laudato si’, and sought to bridge divides between faiths.

Pope Francis profoundly reshaped the Catholic Church’s direction during his papacy. His leadership emphasized inclusivity, social justice, and environmental stewardship. He was the first pope to appoint women to significant roles within the Vatican, such as Sister Nathalie Becquart, who gained voting rights in the Synod of Bishops. This marked a shift toward greater gender inclusivity in Church leadership.

He also broadened the Church’s global representation by appointing cardinals from underrepresented regions, ensuring a more diverse College of Cardinals. His encyclicals highlighted the Church’s commitment to addressing climate change and caring for creation.

Pope Francis softened the Church’s stance on contentious issues, such as homosexuality and contraception, fostering open dialogue on topics previously considered taboo. His focus on humility and simplicity, rejecting the opulence traditionally associated with the papacy, resonated with many as a return to the Church’s roots.

His reforms and pastoral approach have left a lasting legacy, steering the Church toward a more compassionate and globally inclusive future.

Known for his humility and simplicity, Pope Francis eschewed many of the traditional trappings of his office, choosing to live in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta rather than the Apostolic Palace. His leadership was not without controversy, as he navigated challenges such as clerical abuse scandals and debates over Church teachings.

Pope Francis will be remembered as a pastor who sought to bring the Church closer to the people, embodying the values of compassion, mercy, and love. His legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.