The First Pope from the Americas Has Passed Away: A Legacy of Humility and Hope
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in 1936, has passed away at the age of 88, just one day after Easter Sunday, on Monday, April 21, 2025. His death marks the end of a deeply transformative and historic papacy—one that bridged continents, faiths, and generations.
As the first pope from the Americas and the first Jesuit ever elected to the role, Pope Francis broke centuries-old traditions when he ascended to the papacy in 2013, following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI. His election ended more than 1,000 years of exclusively European popes, ushering in a new era of global representation in the Roman Catholic Church.
His passing was officially announced at 9:45 a.m. (GMT+2) by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber:
“Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. [At 7:35 a.m.], the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of His Church. He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage, and universal love, especially in favor of the poorest and most marginalized.”
Pope Francis had been hospitalized for 38 days due to complications from bronchitis, which progressed to double pneumonia. At present, the Vatican has not yet released details on his funeral arrangements.
A Life of Devotion and Reform
Ordained a priest in 1969, Bergoglio became Archbishop of Buenos Aires in 1998 and was elevated to Cardinal in 2001. He chose the name Francis to honor St. Francis of Assisi, known for his humility, love of nature, and care for the poor—values that shaped the tone and mission of his papacy.
As pope, he led six major Synods of Bishops, addressing pressing issues such as the Church’s missionary role, vocational discernment for youth, and its response to modern social challenges. His landmark encyclical, Laudato Si’, called for global environmental responsibility and resonated beyond religious circles.
A Pope for the People
In 2015, Pope Francis made history by becoming the first pope to address a joint session of the U.S. Congress. In that momentous speech, he told lawmakers:
“Each son or daughter of a given country has a mission, a personal and social responsibility. Your own responsibility as members of Congress is to enable this country, by your legislative activity, to grow as a nation. You are the face of its people, their representatives.”
He met with key American Catholic leaders, including then-Vice President Joe Biden and Speaker John Boehner, leaving a powerful impression as both a spiritual and moral leader.
A Final Blessing
Pope Francis leaves behind a Catholic Church forever changed by his unwavering commitment to mercy, humility, and inclusion. He was a voice for the voiceless and a bridge between the sacred and the secular, the rich and the poor, the powerful and the forgotten.
As the world mourns his loss, it also reflects on a legacy that transcends religion—one that speaks to the shared human longing for compassion, justice, and hope. Pope Francis walked in the footsteps of Christ with grace and courage. His message will continue to echo in the hearts of people around the world.
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