?Pope Francis, the 266th leader of the Roman Catholic
Church and the first Latin American and Jesuit pope, passed away on Easter
Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. He died at 7:35 a.m. local time in
his residence at the Vatican's Casa Santa Marta, following complications from a
recent respiratory illness that developed into double pneumonia.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina,
on December 17, 1936, he was ordained as a priest in 1969 and became Archbishop
of Buenos Aires in 1998. He was elevated to cardinal in 2001 and was elected
pope on March 13, 2013, succeeding Pope Benedict XVI.
During his 12-year papacy, Pope Francis was known for
his progressive views and efforts to address institutional issues within the
Church. He condemned clergy sexual abuse cover-ups, advocated for migrants,
raised concerns about climate change, and supported civil unions for same-sex
couples. He also called for the abolition of the death penalty and labeled the
treatment of Indigenous students in Canadian church-run schools as
"genocide."
Despite his reformist stance, he maintained certain
traditional Church values. Francis experienced multiple health complications,
including lung issues from his youth and recurrent respiratory infections,
which led to several hospitalizations in recent years. He had previously
suggested he might retire due to health concerns.
His death has prompted widespread tributes
acknowledging his compassionate leadership and deep spiritual dedication
throughout his papacy. Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Vatican camerlengo,
announced the Pope's passing and praised him for embodying Gospel values with
faith, courage, and love.
Following his death, a period of mourning has been
declared, and preparations are underway for his funeral and the subsequent
papal conclave to elect his successor.
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