Pope Francis, Humble and Inclusive Leader, Dies at 88
Date of Death: April 21, 2025
Age: 88
Place: Vatican City
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, has passed away at the age of 88, marking the end of a papacy defined by humility, compassion, and outreach to marginalized communities. The Vatican confirmed his death early Monday morning, following a prolonged struggle with respiratory and other health issues.
Health Decline and Final Days
Pope Francis had battled chronic respiratory problems since youth, having had part of a lung removed at 21. In early 2025, he was hospitalized with pneumonia and suffered several complications including respiratory failure and low platelet levels. Though he briefly returned to public life in March and appeared on Easter Sunday, his health continued to decline.
A Papacy of Firsts and Reform
- First Latin American pope and the first Jesuit to hold the papacy.
- Chose the name “Francis” after St. Francis of Assisi, reflecting a deep commitment to the poor.
- Known for rejecting luxury — he lived in modest Vatican accommodations and used simple vehicles.
A Champion of Social Justice
Pope Francis reshaped the global perception of the Church with messages of inclusion:
- Welcomed LGBTQ+ individuals with openness, famously asking, “Who am I to judge?”
- Met and apologized to victims of clergy sex abuse, acknowledging institutional failures.
- Advocated for immigrants and refugees, visiting crisis regions and urging global compassion.
Legacy of Compassion
Despite chronic health issues, Pope Francis maintained a visible global presence through travel, public addresses, and symbolic gestures. He brought a human face to the papacy, capturing hearts across faiths with a down-to-earth approach, selfies with pilgrims, and public humility.
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