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Pope Francis died on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88, following complications from a stroke and heart failure. His passing marks the end of a transformative era for the Catholic Church.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, he became the first Jesuit and Latin American pope in 2013. His papacy was committed to humility, social justice, and inclusivity. He chose the name Francis to reflect his dedication to the poor and marginalized, drawing inspiration from St. Francis of Assisi.
Throughout his 12-year tenure, Pope Francis sought to modernize the Church’s approach to contemporary issues. He emphasized environmental stewardship, notably through his encyclical Laudato Si’, and advocated for the rights of immigrants and the LGBTQ+ community. His efforts to address clerical sexual abuse and financial reform within the Vatican were met with both praise and criticism.
Despite resistance from conservative factions, Pope Francis remained steadfast in his mission to create a more compassionate and inclusive Church. His final public appearance on Easter Sunday was a testament to his enduring commitment to peace and unity.
Following his wishes, Pope Francis will be buried at the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome, making him the first pope to be interred outside the Vatican since Pope Leo XIII in 1903. The Vatican has initiated traditional funeral rites, and a conclave will convene in the coming weeks to elect his successor.
Pope Francis’s legacy is one of humility, reform, and a deep concern for the marginalized. His leadership has left an indelible mark on the Catholic Church and the world.
- Hector Pascua
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