The world bids farewell to a spiritual icon. Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, passed away at the age of 88 due to a cerebral stroke and heart failure, as confirmed by the Vatican. His papacy, which began in 2013, broke centuries of tradition—he was the first pope from Latin America, the first Jesuit pope, and the first non-European to hold the office in over 1,300 years.
Renowned for his humility, Pope Francis lived simply, drove modestly, and advocated fiercely for the poor, marginalized, and environment. His leadership brought sweeping calls for reform, inclusivity, and compassion within the Catholic Church—earning both praise and criticism.
From his unprecedented public openness to his bold stances on social issues, Pope Francis leaves behind a deeply human legacy that resonated far beyond the walls of the Vatican. His death marks the end of an era—but his influence will echo in the hearts of millions around the world.
