Pope Francis, Champion of the Marginalized and Church Reformer, Dies at 88​

Pope Francis, the first Latin American pontiff and a transformative figure in the Roman Catholic Church, died on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88.

He passed away at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta, following a prolonged illness that included a recent hospitalization for double pneumonia.

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A Papacy Marked by Humility and Reform

Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis was elected in 2013 as the 266th leader of the Catholic Church.

His tenure was characterized by a commitment to humility, social justice, and inclusivity.

He was known for his efforts to make the Church more accessible and compassionate, often focusing on the needs of the poor and marginalized.

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Pope Francis was also a vocal advocate for environmental stewardship, emphasizing the moral imperative to address climate change.

His encyclical Laudato Si’ called for a collective response to environmental degradation, framing it as a spiritual and ethical issue.

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Global Mourning and Tributes

The news of Pope Francis’s death elicited an outpouring of grief and tributes from around the world.

Global leaders, including U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, praised his dedication to peace, social justice, and interfaith dialogue.

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King Charles and Queen Camilla expressed deep sorrow over the Pope’s passing, recalling their recent visit on April 9, where they shared a private audience and exchanged gifts.

King Charles highlighted Pope Francis’s compassion, devotion to unity, and advocacy for global causes as enduring aspects of his legacy.

A Legacy of Compassion and Challenge

Pope Francis’s papacy was not without controversy.

His progressive stances on issues such as LGBTQ+ rights, divorce, and capitalism drew criticism from conservative factions within the Church.

However, his efforts to modernize the Church and address systemic issues were widely regarded as courageous and necessary steps toward inclusivity.​

Despite facing health challenges, Pope Francis remained active in his duties until the end.

He made his final public appearance on Easter Sunday, offering blessings to the faithful gathered in St.

Peter’s Square.

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The Path Forward

With Pope Francis’s passing, the Vatican now prepares for the papal conclave to select his successor.

Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, will oversee the traditional rites and ceremonies following the Pope’s death.

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Pope Francis leaves behind a legacy of compassion, humility, and a relentless pursuit of justice.

His transformative impact on the Catholic Church and the world at large will be remembered for generations to come.