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Pope Francis Dies at 88: Remembering the Pontiff’s Legacy
Pope Francis, the first Latin American leader of the Catholic Church in 1,300 years, has died at the age of 88. The former chemist and nightclub bouncer, known for his liberal views that sometimes clashed with conservative elements within the Vatican, passed away just hours after appearing in St Peter’s Square on Easter Sunday to deliver a blessing, marking his emergence from a recent convalescence. Upon his election, the Pontiff declared his vision for “a Church which is poor and for the poor.” This declaration set the tone for his papacy and resonated globally.
Early Signs of a Different Papacy
His very choice of name, Francis, in honor of St Francis of Assisi, was reportedly prompted by a Brazilian colleague who whispered “don’t forget the poor” when Jorge Mario Bergoglio’s appointment as head of the Catholic Church was announced. Prior to his election on March 13, 2013, during the fifth ballot of the Conclave, he served as a cardinal since 2001. Even before becoming Pope, he demonstrated a modest lifestyle, residing in a simple apartment and using public transportation rather than the official papal limousine.
A Pontiff of Firsts and Reform
Pope Francis was also the first Pope from the Jesuit order, a significant missionary force within Catholicism since the 16th century. His inauguration took place on March 19, 2013. His informal style and personal charm garnered widespread admiration. He was perceived as a more progressive and overtly political Pope compared to his modern predecessors. However, while popular among the general public, his progressive stance often caused tension within the Vatican, where some viewed him as challenging established Church doctrines.
Challenging Tradition and Shifting Focus
Departing from the conservative approaches of John Paul II and Benedict XVI, Pope Francis initiated changes that sometimes divided the Church. He opened the door for divorced and civilly remarried Catholics to receive Communion, advocated for mass migration, and authorized priests to bless same-sex couples. Famously, early in his papacy, he stated, “If a person is gay and seeks God and has good will, who am I to judge?”
Practical Compassion and a Focus on the Marginalized
During his 12 years as Pontiff, Pope Francis implemented practical measures to aid the homeless in St Peter’s Square, including installing showers and arranging for free haircuts. He was also known for inviting beggars to breakfast on his birthday. His papacy shifted the focus from solely personal morality to broader issues such as climate change and direct assistance to the impoverished. This reformist agenda, sometimes dubbed the “Francis revolution,” attracted many back to the Church or caused them to view the institution in a new light.
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Controversies and Global Impact
Despite his widespread appeal, Pope Francis’s tenure was not without controversy. In 2022, his reluctance to explicitly condemn Russia following its invasion of Ukraine drew criticism, as the Vatican sought to maintain dialogue with the pro-Putin Russian Orthodox Church. His conciliatory approach toward China also sparked accusations of abandoning the underground Catholic Church there. Nevertheless, many considered him a respected figure who brought attention to global suffering and inequality. He favored simple white cassocks over elaborate papal vestments and communicated in a straightforward and accessible manner.
Simplicity in Life and Death
Even facing potential security risks, Pope Francis initially avoided using a custom-made Popemobile, eventually opting for an open-top version when he did use one. When questioned about the risk of assassination, he stated, “I think every day about my dying. This does not distress me.” In death, as in life, Pope Francis chose simplicity and a break from convention. The 267th Pontiff selected a plain wooden coffin with a zinc lining. Public viewing will be with the coffin lid removed, diverging from the typical practice of placing the Pope’s body on a raised platform.
Burial Outside the Vatican
In another departure from tradition, he will be the first Pope in over a century to be buried outside the Vatican, choosing the Basilica of St Mary Major in Rome, citing his “very strong connection” to the church. Pope Leo XIII was the last Pope not buried at St Peter’s, having died in 1903. When asked about funeral arrangements in 2023, he quipped about streamlining the process, hinting at his desire for a simpler ceremony.
From Buenos Aires to the Vatican
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, he was the eldest of five children of Italian immigrants who fled fascism. His father, Mario José, an accountant, and his mother, Regina (née Sívori), from Liguria, raised their family in the Flores district. Despite living in a middle-class area, finances were tight, but family life was rich in love. Young Jorge’s upbringing in a close-knit, devoutly Catholic family deeply influenced his life’s path.
Early Life and Vocation
Growing up, Jorge enjoyed tango and football. Family life was impacted when his mother became paralyzed after the birth of her fifth child, and young Jorge contributed to household tasks. He attended a Salesian school and later a technical school, earning a chemistry diploma. He worked as a nightclub bouncer and floor sweeper before becoming a chemical technician. Although his mother envisioned a medical career for him, Jorge felt a calling to the priesthood.
A Moment of Doubt and Path to Priesthood
In his memoir, Pope Francis recounted a moment of intense attraction to a young woman that briefly made him question his vocation. However, this moment passed, and he entered the Diocesan Seminary of Villa Devoto in Buenos Aires and joined the Society of Jesus in 1958.
Health Challenges and Rise in the Church
Around age 21, he suffered severe pneumonia requiring the removal of part of a lung, making him prone to respiratory issues. He later faced colon and heart problems. After philosophy studies and teaching literature and psychology, he was ordained in 1969. By 1973, at 36, he became Provincial of the Jesuits in Argentina. During Argentina’s “Dirty War,” he faced criticism regarding his actions during the military coup, though he also secretly aided those at risk.
Archbishop and Cardinal
In 1998, he was appointed Archbishop of Buenos Aires and in 2001, John Paul II made him a Cardinal. Despite these advancements, it seemed his superiors were uncertain of his long-term trajectory within the Church.
Election as Pope and Radical Reforms
His 2005 appointment as Pope reportedly caused him internal conflict. He purportedly asked other cardinals to refrain from electing him but was chosen as John Paul II’s successor. Upon becoming Pope, he initiated significant changes in the Vatican. In his first month, he washed the feet of inmates, including women and a Muslim, on Maundy Thursday, challenging traditional Catholic norms. This act symbolized his commitment to a new, more inclusive approach.
Final Days and Lasting Impact
Despite declining health, Pope Francis maintained a demanding schedule. Bronchitis developed into pneumonia, becoming life-threatening. Although recent weeks brought hope of recovery, his passing was announced, shortly after his final Easter blessing in St Peter’s Square. The Vatican praised his commitment to Gospel values, courage, and universal love, especially for the marginalized. World leaders, including King Charles, paid tribute. The future direction of the Catholic Church under a new leader remains uncertain. While his papacy’s full impact will be judged over time, Pope Francis undeniably brought radical change, challenging dogma and leaving a lasting impression.