Pope Francis has passed away at the age of 88, as confirmed on Monday by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Vatican’s camerlengo, who now oversees Church operations during the transition period.
Originally named Jorge Mario Bergoglio, the late pontiff hailed from Buenos Aires, Argentina. He made history in 2013 when he became the first Jesuit and the first Latin American pope, following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI. His leadership quickly became known for its focus on compassion, advocacy for the poor, and a more inclusive approach to the global Church.
Throughout his papacy, Pope Francis pushed for meaningful reforms within the Vatican. He prioritized greater financial accountability and took decisive steps in confronting clerical abuse. His commitment to environmental stewardship was also a hallmark of his legacy, particularly through his widely acclaimed encyclical Laudato Si', which urged international cooperation in combating climate change.
In recent years, concerns about his health had grown, as he was hospitalized several times due to respiratory issues, including a serious case of double pneumonia earlier this year. Still, he continued to fulfill many of his responsibilities, frequently addressing the importance of confronting mortality with grace and spiritual readiness.
