Pope Francis Dies at 88 After Health Struggles

Pope Francis, who died at age 88, is remembered as a groundbreaking leader who embraced a radically evangelical and hands-on approach, drawing admiration from people of all faiths and backgrounds. As the first pope from the Americas and a member of the Jesuits, he championed the marginalized—such as the poor, immigrants, and outcasts—and often prioritized actions over words in spreading the Gospel. His leadership was marked by compassion, humility, and an insistence on constructive dialogue, urging the Church to be outward-looking and joyful rather than inward and anxious. Francis’s willingness to engage with all sides in times of division, exemplified by his calls for unity at global events, earned him both praise and criticism for his efforts to balance tradition with reform. He also advocated for clarity and conciseness in preaching, encouraging preachers to focus on a single, actionable message. Ultimately, his legacy is one of moral courage, bridge-building, and a steadfast commitment to serving those on society’s peripheries.