Pope Francis, who passed away at 88 from a stroke and heart failure, leaves behind a deeply transformative legacy that reshaped the Catholic Church and touched lives across the world. Over 12 impactful years, he brought humanity, humility, and compassion to the papacy, choosing simplicity over grandeur—from living in a guesthouse rather than the Apostolic Palace to embracing the marginalized with open arms.
Elected in 2013, Pope Francis broke convention with his gentle demeanor and informal style. He championed the cause of the poor, spoke of inclusion for “imperfect Catholics,” and encouraged open conversations on divorce, homosexuality, and the role of women—topics often met with resistance in traditional circles. Though he held to some conservative teachings, his emphasis on acceptance and dignity sparked both admiration and debate.
His legacy also includes bold action on global issues. He became a vocal advocate for migrants, environmental justice, and peace, calling war a “failure” and urging ceasefires in conflict zones like Gaza. His landmark encyclical Laudato Si tied climate change to poverty, highlighting the responsibility of richer nations toward the global South.
He also confronted corruption and the Church’s child abuse scandal with sincerity, initiating reforms and personally meeting with victims. Though not without controversy or missteps, his efforts marked a turning point in accountability.
Through his diverse appointment of cardinals and outreach beyond Catholicism, Pope Francis shifted the Church’s focus toward the global south, promoting a more inclusive and listening Church. His life and death remind the world that faith can lead with love, humility, and courage.