The world is heavy-hearted as we say farewell to Pope Francis, who passed away peacefully at the age of 88. Known for his humble lifestyle, he led the Catholic Church with a vision of simplicity and authenticity. His last will revealed a unique arrangement, rare among his predecessors.
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, was the son of Italian immigrants. His father, Mario, worked as a railway accountant, while his mother, Regina, dedicated her time to the home. He first pursued a career as a chemical technician before answering a higher calling to the priesthood.
A Life of Faith and Leadership
In 1958, he joined the Diocesan Seminary of Villa Devoto and later the Society of Jesus. His educational journey took him to Chile and back to Argentina, where he earned a philosophy degree and eventually taught literature and psychology. By 1970, he was ordained a priest and continued his theological education.
His leadership path was illustrious. In 1973, he became Provincial of the Jesuits in Argentina and later the archbishop of Buenos Aires. His elevation to Cardinal by Pope John Paul II laid the foundation for his historic papacy after Benedict XVI’s resignation in 2013, making him the first Latin-American pope.
Pope Francis was a transformative leader, advocating for the marginalized, immigrants, and the environment. He criticized laws against homosexuality as unjust and championed environmental protection through his encyclical “Laudato Si’.” He called for a collective global effort to fight climate change, emphasizing the youth’s role in securing a sustainable future for our planet.
Progressive and Controversial
Though praised for his progressive views, his papacy was not without controversies. He faced scrutiny over the handling of sexual abuse cases within the Church, an issue he later addressed with apologies and firm actions against perpetrators like Cardinal Theodore E. McCarrick.
Despite challenges, Pope Francis remained a grounded individual. Known affectionately as a “foodie,” he preferred simple meals, like good cheese and pizza, showcasing his down-to-earth personality. Instead of residing in the grand papal quarters, he chose a modest apartment, reinforcing his image as a pope of the people.
Facing Health Challenges
Health issues marred the later years of his life, but the thought of resignation never crossed his mind. He described his knee ailment but maintained his commitment to his role, emphasizing that his health was sufficient to continue serving as long as he could.
In his 2024 autobiography, Francis expressed that should he ever retire, he would adopt the simpler title of “bishop of Rome emeritus,” focusing his life on prayer and service outside the Vatican. He assured readers of his dedication to completing many projects as long as his health allowed.
Pope Francis’ condition worsened recently, culminating in a life-threatening respiratory illness that hospitalized him for 38 days. Sadly, shortly after celebrating Easter Sunday with the faithful, he succumbed to a stroke at age 88.
Final Resting Place
Upon his passing, the Vatican revealed Pope Francis’ profound last wish—to be laid to rest not within the Vatican but at the Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. His humble request specified a simple tomb with the inscription: “Franciscus.”
His testament also revealed his desire to continue impacting others by assigning financial arrangements to cover his burial, wishing peace upon those who remember and pray for him, and offering his life’s suffering for world peace and human kinship.
Pope Francis will be remembered as a leader who challenged norms but remained rooted in love, humility, and service. May his soul find eternal peace.
