Historic Loss: Pope Francis, First Latin American & Jesuit Leader of the Catholic Church, Passes Away at 88

Pope Francis, the influential leader of the Roman Catholic Church, passed away on Easter Monday at the age of 88. His death was confirmed at 7:35 a.m. at the Casa Santa Marta in Vatican City, following a recent illness that included double pneumonia and a prolonged hospital stay.

Despite his fragile health, Pope Francis had made a public appearance just days prior. On Easter Sunday, he spoke from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica and met crowds in St. Peter’s Square. His engagement with the public included a meeting with U.S. Vice President JD Vance, marking a significant return to his pastoral duties after months of health challenges.

The news of his passing has sent shockwaves through the global Catholic community, with tributes pouring in from around the world. As the Catholic Church enters a new chapter, the process to select his successor will begin, igniting discussions among traditionalists and progressives about the future trajectory of the institution.

Pope Francis was born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina. He made history in 2013 as the first pope from Latin America and the first Jesuit to hold the papacy. His choice of the name Francis was in honor of Saint Francis of Assisi, emphasizing his commitment to the poor and nature.

His papacy was characterized by efforts to reform the Church, advocating for social justice and inclusivity. He expressed support for the legal protection of gay couples and opened discussions on women’s roles in the Church. His teachings often highlighted the importance of caring for the marginalized.

After entering the Society of Jesus in 1958, Bergoglio was ordained as a priest in 1969. He committed himself to serving impoverished communities in Buenos Aires before becoming archbishop in 1998 and was appointed cardinal in 2001.