The Catholic Church and the world mourn the passing of Pope Francis, a transformative spiritual leader whose extraordinary life journey from working-class Buenos Aires to the Throne of Saint Peter made him one of the most beloved pontiffs in modern history.
The Vatican confirmed his death on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at age 88, concluding his 12-year papacy that reshaped global Catholicism.
From Flores to the Vatican: An unlikely path
Deputy Finance Minister Thomas Ampem Nyarko says the government will soon meet transport operators to discuss reducing fares as fuel prices drop. Details of possible transport fare reduction…
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires’ working-class Flores district, the future pope was the eldest of five children in an Italian immigrant family.
His early life reflected a blend of intellectual curiosity and gritty practicality:
A historic papacy
Elected in 2013 as the 266th pope, his ascension broke multiple barriers:
His election followed the unprecedented resignation of Pope Benedict XVI, marking a new era for the Church.
A leader defined by humility
Even as he rose through ecclesiastical ranks—from Jesuit provincial (1973–1979) to Archbishop of Buenos Aires (1998) and Cardinal (2001)—Francis rejected trappings of privilege:
A Legacy of compassion and controversy
His papacy championed marginalised communities while navigating complex doctrinal tensions:
If a person is gay and seeks God and has good will, who am I to judge them?
-
Doctrinal Steadfastness: Upheld Church teachings on abortion, euthanasia, and gender identity (Dignitas Infinita, 2024).
Final years and passing
Though his 2024 use of a homophobic slur (later apologised for) sparked debate, his “People’s Pope” ethos endured. He died on Easter Monday, a symbolic date reflecting his lifelong message of renewal and hope.
What’s Next: The Vatican will convene a conclave within 15–20 days to elect his successor, as the Church reflects on a papacy that bridged tradition and modernity like no other.
