Vatican City: Pope Francis, the spiritual leader of the world’s 1.2 billion Catholics, has died at the age of 88, the Vatican has announced. Elected in March 2013, Pope Francis brought a mix of humility, reformist zeal, and deep-rooted tradition to the papacy, becoming a global moral voice during a complex period for the Catholic Church.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, he was the first Jesuit and first Latin American to ascend to the papacy, and the first non-European Pope since Gregory III in the 8th century. His papacy marked a shift from opulence to humility, symbolized by his decision to live in a guesthouse instead of the papal palace and his simple white garments.
Pope Francis was known for his progressive economic views and conservative stances on doctrinal issues like abortion, euthanasia, and same-sex marriage. He once remarked, “How I would love a Church that is poor and for the poor.” Despite criticism from traditionalists and reformists alike, he made efforts to unify diverging Catholic factions.
A chemist by training and former nightclub bouncer, his early life reflected his connection to ordinary people. He faced challenges during Argentina’s military dictatorship and was accused—though he denied—of failing to protect two priests who were kidnapped and tortured. Nevertheless, many credited him with helping others flee the regime.
During his pontificate, he championed social justice, interfaith dialogue, and climate responsibility. He became a key mediator between the U.S. and Cuba, sought reconciliation with Eastern Orthodox churches, and condemned religious extremism in all forms.
However, his legacy was also marred by criticism over the Church’s handling of sexual abuse cases. The 2018 publication of a letter by Archbishop Carlo Maria Viganò accused Francis of ignoring abuse allegations, prompting calls for his resignation.
In later years, Francis suffered from various health issues but continued to travel extensively, promote peace, and lead the Church with resolve. His final years were marked by appeals to end global conflicts, especially in Ukraine, and renewed efforts toward interfaith harmony.
Pope Francis appointed over 140 cardinals from outside Europe, diversifying Church leadership. His successor inherits a more globally inclusive Church — shaped by a leader committed to bridging divides, restoring moral focus, and bringing the Church closer to its mission of serving humanity.
As Pope Francis once said, “If I had to choose between a bruised Church that goes out to the streets and a sick Church that stays closed in on itself, I would choose the first.”
