Pope Francis, the first Latin American pope, passed away on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. His death marks the end of a pontificate that has significantly influenced the Catholic Church and the broader world.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on December 17, 1936, he was known for his simplicity and commitment to social justice. Before becoming pope, he served as the archbishop of Buenos Aires and was recognized for his pastoral approach to leadership. He famously stated, "My people are poor, and I am one of them," reflecting his deep connection to marginalized communities.
Pope Francis was hospitalized for 38 days due to bilateral pneumonia before his death. His health had been a concern for several years, but he continued to engage in public life and address pressing global issues, including migration, climate change, and international peace.
His final public engagement was a visit to Marseille in September 2023, where he drew nearly 350,000 people during a two-day visit that focused on the plight of migrants. This visit was particularly significant as it allowed him to reconnect with the French Church, a relationship that had been strained during his papacy.
Upon arriving in Marseille, the pope was greeted with a red carpet at the Marseille-Provence airport, where he was welcomed by French Prime Minister Élisabeth Borne and local dignitaries. He traveled through the city in a humble Fiat 500, symbolizing his commitment to humility and accessibility. According to the Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera, "Pope Francis made humility one of the many hallmarks of his papacy."
During his visit, he emphasized the importance of aiding migrants, stating, "People who risk drowning when abandoned on the waves must be rescued. It is a duty of humanity, a duty of civilization!" This powerful message resonated with many and underscored his dedication to social justice.
The pope also met with families in need in the northern neighborhoods of Marseille, highlighting the challenges faced by impoverished communities. His engagement with these families was a testament to his pastoral mission and commitment to serving those on the margins of society.
In a significant political moment, Pope Francis held a private meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron, where they discussed various international crises, including the situation in Ukraine and the ongoing issues surrounding immigration and ecology. This was their fourth meeting since Macron took office.
On the second day of his visit, Pope Francis celebrated a mass at the Vélodrome stadium, attended by around 800 choristers and thousands of faithful. The event was marked by a vibrant atmosphere, with supporters displaying a giant tifo depicting the pope alongside Notre Dame de la Garde. Cardinal Jean-Marc Aveline, the archbishop of Marseille, expressed gratitude for the pope's visit, stating, "Marseille will never forget the immense gift you have given us!"
After his mass, the pope's departure ceremony took place at Marseille-Provence airport, where he was seen off by Emmanuel and Brigitte Macron. The pope boarded his flight back to Rome, leaving behind a legacy of compassion and a renewed focus on social issues.
Pope Francis's relationship with France was complex. Unlike his predecessors, he was often criticized for not fully engaging with the French Church and its challenges. His only previous visit to France was in 2014, during which he addressed the European Parliament in Strasbourg. Although he had received invitations from French presidents François Hollande and Emmanuel Macron, he did not return for a pastoral visit until 2023.
Throughout his papacy, he faced criticism for his views on French secularism, which he believed could lead to intolerance. He expressed concerns about the strong influence of Enlightenment ideals on French secularism, stating, "In some countries like France, this secularism has a heritage from the Enlightenment that is too strong, creating a collective imagination where religions are seen as a subculture."
In the wake of his death, the Catholic Church enters a period of transition as cardinals prepare for a conclave to elect his successor, scheduled between May 6 and May 11, 2025. Several candidates are emerging, including Pietro Parolin, the current Secretary of State, and Jean-Marc Aveline, the archbishop of Marseille.
As the world reflects on the life and legacy of Pope Francis, tributes have poured in from global leaders, highlighting his commitment to peace and social justice. Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris rang its bells 88 times in his honor, symbolizing the impact he had on the Church and the world at large.
Pope Francis's tenure was marked by a focus on mercy, inclusivity, and dialogue. His passing leaves a significant void in the Catholic Church, prompting questions about its future direction and the challenges it will face in an increasingly complex world.
As the Church prepares for the conclave, many will be watching closely to see whether the next pope will continue the path set by Francis or chart a new course. The legacy of Pope Francis, a champion of the marginalized and a voice for peace, will undoubtedly influence the discussions and decisions that lie ahead.
