History of Sorts

I’m not Catholic, but that doesn’t mean I can’t respect the Pope—after all, he was the spiritual leader of 1.41 billion Catholics worldwide

Since his election in March 2013, Pope Francis has reshaped the papacy in ways that have resonated far beyond the walls of the Vatican. Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, he became the first Jesuit pope, the first from the Americas, and the first to take the name Francis—after Saint Francis of Assisi, a symbol of humility, peace, and care for the poor.

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, became the 266th pope of the Roman Catholic Church in March 2013. As the first pope from the Americas and the first Jesuit to hold the position, his election marked a historic shift in the global Church. His papacy has been defined by a focus on humility, social justice, environmental stewardship, and a commitment to reform. As he ages and his health becomes a topic of increasing concern, it is worth reflecting not only on his legacy but also on the potential impact his death may have on the Catholic Church and the wider world.

Pope Francis brought a renewed sense of humanity to the papacy. His choice of the name “Francis” after St. Francis of Assisi—known for his dedication to the poor and the environment—was a clear signal of the values he intended to uphold. He has emphasized mercy over judgment, famously saying, “Who am I to judge?” in reference to LGBTQ individuals, a moment that signaled a more compassionate approach to previously rigid doctrines. He has also worked to decentralize Church authority, empower local bishops, and open dialogue on previously taboo topics, such as divorce, celibacy, and the role of women in the Church.

One of Pope Francis’ most profound impacts has been his environmental advocacy. In his 2015 encyclical Laudato Si’, he made a compelling moral argument for addressing climate change, framing ecological concern as a matter of justice and solidarity with the poor. This call to action positioned the Catholic Church as a key voice in the global environmental movement, influencing both political leaders and grassroots activists.

Yet, Pope Francis’ tenure has not been without controversy. His efforts to reform the Curia (the Vatican’s central bureaucracy) and his more inclusive tone have met resistance from traditionalists within the Church. His handling of sexual abuse scandals, while more transparent than some predecessors, has also drawn criticism for being too cautious or inconsistent. Despite these challenges, Francis has remained a unifying figure for many Catholics and non-Catholics alike, embodying humility and a deep concern for marginalized communities.

The death of Pope Francis represents not just the end of a papacy but potentially the closing of a transformative chapter in the Church’s history. It will prompt a critical moment of reflection for the College of Cardinals as they elect a new pope. The ideological direction of the Church could shift dramatically depending on who is chosen to succeed him. If a more conservative figure were elected, some of Francis’ reforms could be rolled back or stalled. Alternatively, the Church might choose a like-minded successor to continue his path of modernization and openness.

Pope Francis has left an indelible mark on the Catholic Church and the world at large. His emphasis on mercy, care for creation, and advocacy for the poor has reshaped the image and priorities of the papacy. When the time comes, his death will undoubtedly be a moment of mourning, but also of decision—about the kind of Church the world needs next, and how to carry forward the values he championed so passionately

On Monday April 21, 2025 At 9:45 AM, Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, announced the death of Pope Francis from the Casa Santa Marta with these words:

“Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of His Church. He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage, and universal love, especially in favor of the poorest and most marginalized. With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite merciful love of the One and Triune God.”

sources

https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2025-04/pope-francis-dies-on-easter-monday-aged-88.html

https://www.bbc.com/news/live/crknlnzlrzdt

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/apr/21/pope-francis-dies

https://news.sky.com/story/pope-francis-has-died-the-vatican-says-12890455