Pope Francis who was the First Latin American leader of the Roman Catholic Church, Pope Francis is dead.

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, was the first Latin American to ascend to the papacy. Elected in March 2013, he became the 266th pope of the Roman Catholic Church and the first Jesuit to hold the position. His election marked a historic shift for the Church, as it looked beyond Europe for leadership for the first time in over a millennium. Known for his humility, simple lifestyle, and concern for the poor, Pope Francis quickly became a transformative figure in global religious and political discourse.

Throughout his papacy, Pope Francis championed a more inclusive and compassionate Church. He called for mercy over judgment, especially regarding sensitive issues such as divorce, homosexuality, and migration. His encyclicals, like Laudato Si’, emphasized the urgency of environmental protection and the moral obligation to address climate change. He also sought to reform the Vatican bureaucracy and took steps to confront the Church’s handling of sexual abuse cases, though critics argued that more accountability was needed.

Pope Francis made significant efforts to bridge gaps between faiths and cultures. He prioritized dialogue with other religions, particularly Islam and Judaism, and was the first pope to visit the Arabian Peninsula. His global outreach reflected his belief that the Church must be a “field hospital” for a wounded world—offering healing, hope, and solidarity. He also strongly advocated for peace, often speaking out against war, nuclear weapons, and the plight of refugees and the marginalized.

Pope Francis passed away after over a decade of service, leaving behind a complex and enduring legacy. His death marks the end of an era characterized by bold reforms, spiritual introspection, and renewed engagement with contemporary issues. While he faced criticism and challenges, his influence reshaped the global perception of the papacy and inspired millions around the world. His tenure will be remembered as one that opened the doors of the Church wider to the modern world.