The world is in mourning following the passing of Pope Francis on April 21. At the age of 88, after more than ten years at the helm of the Catholic Church, he left an indelible mark on millions with his compassion and leadership.
Born in Argentina, he was cherished as one of the most beloved popes in history.
Pope Francis: The First Pope from the Americas
On this second day of Easter, Catholics around the globe are saddened by the loss. The Vatican delivered the somber news: “Beloved brothers and sisters, it is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of our Holy Father Francis. This morning, at 7:35 AM, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, went to his heavenly home.”
Throughout his life, the Pope dedicated himself wholeheartedly to serving the Lord and His Church. He taught us all to live the Gospel’s values with unwavering faith, courage, and love, especially towards the impoverished and marginalized.
The Holy Father had been admitted to a Rome hospital on February 14, 2025. His health deteriorated due to a complicated respiratory infection. The need for comprehensive medical treatment was outlined by the Vatican.
“This morning, after concluding his audiences, Pope Francis was hospitalized at Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic for necessary tests and continued treatment for his persistent bronchitis,” according to a press statement from the Holy See on February 14.
On April 21, the Vatican confirmed his passing. Pope Francis was the 266th pope of the Catholic Church. On March 13, 2013, from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, the world heard: “We announce to you with great joy, we have a pope!”
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, he took the name Francis I. At 76 at the time of his election, he was among the oldest candidates. Known for his humility and theological prowess, he became the first Jesuit pope and first pope from South America.
A Life Dedicated to Service
Pope Francis’ life is akin to a remarkable story. Known for his warmth and humor, his real name was Jorge Mario Bergoglio, and he was born in Buenos Aires on December 17, 1936, to an Italian-Argentinian family of five children. His father worked on the railroads, and his mother was a homemaker.
Francis had four siblings: Maria Elena, Alberto, Osar, and Marta Regina. He initially pursued chemistry in Argentina’s capital before enrolling in a seminary in Villa Devoto.
On March 11, 1958, he became a Jesuit novice, later earning a philosophy degree at San Miguel’s Colegio Maximo San Jose and teaching literature and psychology.
In December 1969, he was ordained as a priest. The 1970s took him to Spain for further studies before returning to Argentina to complete his perpetual profession on April 22, 1973.
By 1986, he was in Germany working on his doctorate, and later moved to Cordoba to serve as a spiritual director and confessor.
A Humble Lifestyle
Throughout his time in the Church, humility defined his life. As Archbishop of Buenos Aires, Francis chose a modest residence over a luxuriously appointed one, abstained from owning a mobile phone or having a chauffeur, preferring public transport and self-cooking.
His simplicity won the hearts of many around the world. Even in his early priesthood, having lost a lung to illness, he remained dedicated to service, forced to abandon his chemistry studies due to health issues.
An ardent supporter of the San Lorenzo de Almagro soccer team from Buenos Aires, Pope Francis always cherished his roots.
Visits and Honors
In 2019, Pope Francis visited Romania, spreading his message of unity and spirituality. On June 2, 2019, he led a beatification ceremony in Blaj. Earlier, in 2017, the Romanian Academy honored him as an honorary member.
His legacy is one of humility, service, and unwavering faith. The world mourns a leader who bridged gaps and touched hearts.
We invite you to share your thoughts and memories of Pope Francis in the comments section below. Let’s keep his legacy alive by celebrating his remarkable life and contributions.