Pope Francis, First Latin American Pope, Dies at 88

Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21, 2025, is being remembered globally for transforming the Catholic Church through his humility, compassion, and commitment to inclusivity and justice. As the first Latin American and Jesuit pope, he emphasized dialogue, peace, and care for the marginalized, becoming a moral voice on issues such as climate action, economic equality, and interfaith cooperation. His papacy was marked by historic outreach, including the first-ever meeting between a pope and the head of the Russian Orthodox Church and the signing of the Abu Dhabi declaration on human fraternity. Francis's approach often combined deep pastoral care—favoring mercy over strict doctrine—with a willingness to address tensions and divisive issues within the Church, such as LGBTQ+ inclusion and global conflict. His legacy is celebrated not only within the Catholic world but also across religious and national boundaries, as seen in tributes from Cuba, Bahrain, and leaders worldwide. As the world bids farewell, Francis is honored as a tireless messenger of peace and a shepherd who redefined the papacy for a new era.