Pope Francis Dies at 88: A Legacy of Humility and Simplicity/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Pope Francis, the first Latin American and Jesuit pope, passed away at 88, leaving behind a legacy marked by humility and reform. His papacy emphasized outreach to marginalized communities, environmental stewardship, and church modernization. Despite facing criticism, his leadership transformed the Catholic Church’s approach to inclusivity and social justice.
Pope Francis’ Humble Leadership: Quick Looks
- Historic Papacy: First Latin American and Jesuit pope, elected in 2013.
- Inclusive Outreach: Advocated for LGBTQ+ rights, migrants, and the poor.
- Environmental Advocacy: Authored the encyclical “Laudato Si’” addressing climate change.
- Church Reforms: Implemented financial transparency and increased roles for women.
- Controversies: Faced criticism over handling of clergy abuse scandals.
- Final Days: Died on April 21, 2025, after a prolonged hospitalization.
- African leaders laud Pope Francis as voice for peace and equality.
Deep Look
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires in 1936, broke centuries of tradition as the first Latin American and Jesuit pope. His election in 2013 marked a shift towards a more inclusive and humble papacy. Known for his simple lifestyle, he chose to reside in the Vatican guesthouse rather than the Apostolic Palace and often used modest transportation, reflecting his commitment to humility.
Francis prioritized outreach to marginalized communities. He made historic gestures, such as washing the feet of prisoners and embracing individuals with disabilities. His papacy was notable for its progressive stance on social issues; he famously stated, “Who am I to judge?” in reference to gay individuals seeking God. He also opened discussions on blessing same-sex unions and included women in significant roles within the Vatican.
Environmental concerns were central to his teachings. In his 2015 encyclical “Laudato Si’,” he called for urgent action against climate change, criticizing consumerism and irresponsible development. His advocacy extended to economic justice, where he denounced the “economy that kills” and emphasized the need for a system that serves people over profit.
Despite these advancements, Francis faced challenges, particularly regarding the Church’s handling of sexual abuse cases. His initial defense of a Chilean bishop accused of covering up abuse led to public outcry, prompting him to apologize and implement reforms aimed at increasing accountability within the Church hierarchy.
Francis’ health declined in his later years, with a significant hospitalization for double pneumonia in early 2025. He made his final public appearance on Easter Sunday, delivering a blessing from the same balcony where he first greeted the world as pope. He passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88.
His death prompted global mourning, with tributes highlighting his compassionate leadership and efforts to modernize the Catholic Church. Francis’ legacy is one of humility, inclusivity, and a steadfast commitment to social justice, leaving an indelible mark on the Church and the world.
Trump says he’s not sure if he’ll attend Pope Francis’ funeral, but says “he’s a very good man”
“I don’t know yet. We’re going to be briefed on it right now,” Trump told reporters at the White House Easter Egg Roll Monday morning.
Asked if he’d like to go to the funeral, Trump said: “Well, I don’t know. I just have to look at the timing. We just lowered the flags.” Trump had ordered flags flown at half-staff earlier Monday in honor of the pope’s death.
Additionally, Trump, who the pope had criticized over his immigration crackdown, said he agrees with Pope Francis’ message of tolerance toward migrants.
“Yeah, I do, I do,” Trump said. “I really do.”
Commenting on the pope’s legacy, Trump said: “He’s a very good man who loved the world. And he especially loved people that were having a hard time. And that’s good with me.”
African leaders laud Pope Francis as voice for peace and equality
A host of African leaders have offered their condolences after the death of Pope Francis on Monday, paying tribute to the late pontiff.
A statement released by Egypt’s presidency said that Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, the country’s leader, “profoundly mourns” Pope Francis.
The death of the pontiff “represents a profound loss for the entire world, as he was a voice for peace, love, and mercy, and an example to be emulated in devotion to noble values,” the statement said, noting Francis’ commitment to the people of Gaza and his criticism of Israel’s war against Hamas.
Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the president of Nigeria, said in a post on X that he mourns the death of Francis with a “heavy heart,” calling him a “humble servant of God, tireless champion of the poor, and guiding light for millions.”
Kenya’s President William Samoei Ruto called the death of Pope Francis a “big loss to the Catholic faithful and the Christian world,” adding that “his strong ethical and moral convictions inspired millions across the world, regardless of faith or background.”
Cyril Ramaphosa, the president of South Africa, said that “Catholics and people of all faiths are saddened” by the passing of Francis, who “sought to unite humanity and wished to see a world governed by fundamental human values.”
He added that “Pope Francis advanced a world view of inclusion, equality and care for marginalized individuals and groups, as well as responsible and sustainable custody of the natural environment.”
Abiy Ahmed Ali, the prime minister of Ethiopia, wrote on X that he extended his “deepest condolences” on the Pope’s death.
“May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his legacy of compassion, humility, and service to humanity continue to inspire generations to come,” he wrote.
The President of Zimbabwe Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa called the late pope “a man of profound humility who stood for peace, compassion, and justice,” writing on X that he joins the world in mourning Francis’ passing.
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