Pope Francis passed away on Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. His death was confirmed by the Holy See.
Jorge Mario Bergoglio, the first pope from the Americas, was elected in 2013 following the historic resignation of Benedict XVI. He died in Rome, after more than twelve years at the helm of a Catholic Church deeply committed to the poor, the marginalized, and migrants, and actively engaged with the challenges of the modern world.
A Papacy Marked by Simplicity and Humility
From the evening of his election in March 2013, the Argentine cardinal made headlines by choosing the name Francis, in honor of Saint Francis of Assisi, a symbol of poverty and love for all creation.
He refused to reside in the traditional papal apartments, opted for simple clothing, and often moved about without rigid protocol. Pope Francis brought a fresh spirit to the Vatican.
He made a series of powerful gestures: visiting refugee camps, washing the feet of prisoners, and holding special audiences for the homeless. These acts, widely praised by the faithful, helped reinforce the popularity of a pope determined to embody a Church close to the people.