Pope Francis, the first Latin American pope, passed away at 88, as confirmed by the Vatican. Cardinal Kevin Farrell announced his death, highlighting Francis’s lifelong commitment to the Lord and the Church, as well as his advocacy for universal love, particularly for the poor.
Francis’s health had been precarious for years, suffering from chronic lung issues that necessitated hospitalisation and treatment for pneumonia prior to his demise. His papacy, lasting 12 years, was marked by significant reforms and an emphasis on mercy and inclusivity. He often advocated for social justice, forgiveness, and the protection of the environment, becoming a voice for the marginalized.
He famously welcomed the LGBTQ+ community, stating, “Who am I to judge?” concerning a gay priest, and advocated for the abolishment of laws that criminalise homosexuality. He condemned the death penalty and raised concerns about the immorality of nuclear weapons.
Throughout his tenure, Francis’s focus was on creating a Church characterised by mercy, which involved not only modernising certain aspects but upholding traditional Catholic doctrines. He expanded women’s roles within the Church, allowing them to participate more in decision-making processes.
Francis faced challenges, particularly regarding the clergy’s handling of sexual abuse scandals. While he initiated reforms for accountability, his approach drew criticism for being slow and at times ineffective. Despite some conservatives opposing his progressive stances, his leadership brought a sense of renewal, focusing more on compassionate outreach than on rigid dogma.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires to Italian immigrants, Francis entered the Jesuits and was ordained a priest in 1969. His early experiences during Argentina’s dictatorship shaped his commitment to social justice, though his inaction at the time raised questions about his leadership.
He emphasised the need for the Church to become a refuge for everyone, irrespective of social status, and often prioritised outreach to the poor over engagements with the elite. His legacy lies in advocating for economic justice, speaking out against excessive wealth disparities, and calling for a more equitable society.
As the Church mourns his loss, a nine-day period of mourning is set to begin, leading to the selection of a new pontiff by the College of Cardinals. Pope Francis’s example as a humble servant of God and champion of the downtrodden is expected to leave a lasting impact on the Catholic Church and its future direction.