Pope Francis, originally named Jorge Mario Bergoglio, died at the age of 88 on April 21, 2025, at Casa Santa Marta in the Vatican. His death followed a prolonged battle with double pneumonia, culminating after a 38-day hospitalization in Rome. Although he faced significant health issues, he made one last public appearance on Easter Sunday, speaking to the faithful from the balcony of Saint Peter’s Basilica.
Elected in 2013, Pope Francis was the first Latin American and Jesuit pope, bringing a fresh perspective to the papacy. His time in office was characterized by initiatives aimed at modernizing the Catholic Church and promoting greater inclusivity.
Stance on Key Issues
- Abortion: Pope Francis upheld the Church’s traditional opposition to abortion, describing it as part of a “throwaway culture.” However, he emphasized compassion over condemnation, allowing priests to forgive the sin of abortion, a departure from previous practices where only bishops had this authority. He also opposed denying Communion to political figures who supported abortion rights, advocating for spiritual guidance over political judgment.
- LGBTQ+ Rights: Known for his inclusive approach, Pope Francis famously stated, “Who am I to judge?” regarding gay Catholics. While maintaining the Church’s doctrine on homosexual acts, he permitted blessings for same-sex couples and recognized that transgender individuals could be baptized and serve as godparents. In Argentina, he advocated for civil unions as a legal option instead of same-sex marriage.
- Clergy Abuse: Initially criticized for his handling of sexual abuse cases, particularly in Chile, Pope Francis later acknowledged his mistakes and implemented reforms to address the crisis. He established new protocols for investigating abuse and emphasized the Church’s responsibility to protect the vulnerable.
- Interfaith Relations: Pope Francis made significant strides in promoting interfaith dialogue, reaching out to Muslim communities and other marginalized faith groups. His efforts aimed to foster mutual respect and understanding among different religious traditions.
- Environmental Advocacy: A vocal advocate for environmental issues, Pope Francis published the encyclical “Laudato Si’,” calling for urgent action to combat climate change and protect the planet. He emphasized the moral imperative of environmental stewardship and its connection to social justice.
Global Impact and Legacy
Pope Francis’s death has elicited tributes from around the world, reflecting his profound impact on both the Church and global society. His commitment to humility, social justice, and inclusivity resonated with many, earning him the moniker “the People’s Pope.” His efforts to bridge divides and address contemporary issues have left an indelible mark on the Catholic Church.
After his passing, the College of Cardinals will gather to elect a new pope. In the meantime, Cardinal Kevin Farrell will be responsible for managing the Church’s affairs. As the world mourns his loss, Pope Francis’s legacy of compassion and reform continues to inspire.
