Pope Francis, the first Latin American and Jesuit pope, passed away on Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88, bringing to a close a 12-year papacy marked by humility, reform, and advocacy for the marginalized.
5 facts on Pope Francis
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Historic Firsts
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Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina in 1936.
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Became the first Latin American, first Jesuit, and the first pope to adopt the name Francis, honoring St. Francis of Assisi.
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Elected in 2013 after the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI.
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A Pope for the Poor
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Nicknamed “The Pope of the Slums” for his tireless work with impoverished communities.
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Advocated for social justice, urging the Church to prioritize the poor and forgotten.
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Champion of Inclusion
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Welcomed migrants, LGBTQ Catholics, and others traditionally marginalized by Church doctrine.
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His famous quote, “Who am I to judge?”, became symbolic of his compassionate theology.
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Bold Reformer
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Pushed for financial transparency, climate action, and pastoral openness.
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Faced resistance from conservative factions within the Church, especially over issues like divorce, same-sex blessings, and critiques of capitalism.
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Peaceful Passing and Global Mourning
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Passed away peacefully at Domus Santa Marta in the Vatican.
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Cardinal Kevin Ferrell, Vatican camerlengo, officially announced his death.
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Church bells tolled across Rome, and global leaders expressed condolences for a “pontiff of the people.”
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