Pope Francis, the People’s Pope, Passes Away at 88

News Summary

Pope Francis has passed away at the age of 88, marking the end of an era for the Catholic Church. Known for his commitment to humility and social justice, he leaves behind a profound legacy. His passing has drawn global tributes and reflections on his impact, especially regarding issues of compassion and environmental responsibility. A conclave is expected to convene to elect his successor as the world mourns the loss of a transformative leader.

Pope Francis, the People’s Pope, Passes Away at 88

In a heartfelt moment that marks the end of an era, Pope Francis has passed away at the age of 88. The announcement came at 7:35 am on April 21, 2025, from Cardinal Kevin Farrell on Vatican TV, leaving many around the globe to reflect on the legacy of a man who truly redefined the papacy. Pope Francis, born as Jorge Mario Bergoglio on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, became the 266th pope in history, known affectionately as the “People’s Pope.”

A Trailblazer in the Vatican

When Bergoglio ascended to the papacy on March 13, 2013, he made history as the first pope from the Americas and the first Jesuit to take on this significant role. Choosing the name Francis was more than a ceremonial gesture; it was a reflection of his unwavering commitment to humility, poverty, and social justice. He succeeded Pope Benedict XVI, who stepped down due to health challenges—a move that surprised the world and paved the way for a new approach to leadership in the Church.

Social Justice at the Forefront

Pope Francis became recognized for his emphasis on social justice and compassion throughout his tenure. He was vocal about the needs of the marginalized and fought tirelessly for immigrants’ rights in a world where many political leaders pursued exclusionary policies. His dedication to environmental issues was showcased in his groundbreaking 2015 encyclical “Laudato Si’,” where he called for a collective action against climate change. Through this document, he emphasized how taking care of our planet is a moral obligation intrinsic to the Church’s teachings.

Facing Tough Challenges

During his papacy, Francis had to navigate several turbulent waters within the Church, including horrors from the past, such as clerical sexual abuse scandals and the notorious Vatican banking scandal. He worked to address these issues candidly, striving to restore faith in the institution.

A Legacy of Humility and Compassion

Known for his public acts of humility, Pope Francis often took the time to engage directly with those society often overlooks. Whether it was washing the feet of prisoners or spending intimate moments with refugees, he demonstrated how faith could manifest through action. His famous words, “Who am I to judge?” showcased his progressive stance towards LGBTQ rights, aiming to build bridges rather than walls.

Global Reactions to His Passing

The announcement of his passing has led to an outpouring of tributes worldwide. Leaders like former U.S. President Barack Obama highlighted how Pope Francis awakened the world to existential issues, urging everyone to move beyond complacency. The Pope’s influence reached beyond Catholicism, impacting global discussions on morality and ethics.

Honoring His Memory

In tribute to his life and service, the Vatican plans a special mass in Jerusalem, further displaying how his influence extended far and wide. Funeral services are planned to honor his wishes: a public viewing in St. Peter’s Basilica and a burial at Santa Maria Maggiore. This is in line with Pope Francis’s guidance to simplify traditional rites, reflecting his vision for a more accessible and relatable Church.

The Path Forward

Following this pivotal moment, a conclave of cardinals is expected to gather within the next 15 to 20 days to elect his successor. As the world grapples with the loss of such a transformative figure, many have begun to ponder who will step into his shoes and continue the work he so passionately championed.

Pope Francis leaves behind a legacy rooted in compassion, social activism, and a compassionate approach to faith. As we remember him, we are reminded that his teachings will continue to resonate, challenging us to strive for justice, empathy, and a caring society.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• Al Jazeera
• Wikipedia: Pope Francis
• The Guardian
• Google Search: Pope Francis
• The Hill
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Pope Francis