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With the passing of Pope Francis, the world bids farewell to a spiritual leader whose papacy reshaped the modern Catholic Church and resonated far beyond its walls. A global figure of humility, Pope Francis leaves behind a legacy embedded for generations to come.
Learn more about Pope Francis' legacy through images
Images of Pope Francis' funeral here
A Historic Papacy
Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio became a pioneer when he was elected to the papacy in 2013. He became the first Jesuit pope, and the first non-European pope in more than 1,200 years. His election marked a pivotal shift - symbolizing a Church that sought to reflect the voices of the global South and embrace the diversity of its faithful.
A Champion of the Marginalized
Pope Francis will be remembered as a pope who consistently placed the marginalized at the heart of his mission. His papal motto, Miserando atque eligendo - “by having mercy and by choosing him” - spoke to his lifelong dedication to humility and service. Whether advocating for the poor, defending the rights of migrants, or championing climate justice, he embodied a message of solidarity with the world’s most vulnerable.
A Voice for Peace and Inclusion
Amidst turbulent global conflicts, Pope Francis emerged as a tireless advocate for peace and unity. He worked tirelessly to build friendships with leaders of other faiths, seeking to bridge religious divides through compassion and cooperation. His progressive approach to inclusion - particularly toward LGBTQ+ individuals, divorced Catholics, and other marginalized groups within the Church - opened up critical conversations and challenged centuries of tradition.
Pope Francis chose to live modestly, reflecting his belief that leadership should be grounded in authenticity. From choosing simpler vestments to residing in the Vatican guest house rather than the Apostolic Palace, his lifestyle reflected a deep-rooted commitment to living the Gospel with humility.
A Global Environmental Advocate
Pope Francis’s 2015 encyclical ‘Laudato Si’ marked a turning point in the Church’s engagement with ecological issues. Urging humanity to care for “our common home,” the document called for immediate action on climate change and environmental degradation. It established the Vatican as a key voice in the climate crisis.
Pope Francis’s life was a testament to the power of faith in action - a reminder that leadership can be compassionate, inclusive, and transformative. As the world mourns his passing, his legacy continues to inspire dialogue, empathy, and a renewed sense of moral responsibility for generations to come.
