By Tinotenda Hove

Pope Francis, the beloved and groundbreaking leader of the Roman Catholic Church, died on Monday, April 21, at the age of 88. His passing came just a day after he appeared from the Apostolic Palace balcony in St. Peter’s Square, smiling and raising his hand in blessing to a massive Easter Sunday crowd—his final public act of devotion.

Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis was elected in 2013 following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI. His election was historic: he became the first pope from the Americas, the first Jesuit to ascend to the papacy, and the first to choose the name Francis, signaling a vision aligned with Saint Francis of Assisi’s legacy of humility, service, and solidarity with the poor.

During his more than a decade-long papacy, Francis led the Church through a complex and often turbulent era, advocating for reform, transparency, and a return to the Gospel’s central message of mercy. He called for action on climate change, decried global inequality, emphasized interfaith dialogue, and urged compassion toward refugees and marginalized communities. In a Church long steeped in tradition, he became a symbol of hope for many seeking a more inclusive and empathetic institution.

“He was a shepherd who walked with his flock,” said Sister Maria Elena, a nun who had met Francis during one of his visits to the outskirts of Rome. “He listened, he wept with people, and he laughed with them. He made us feel seen.”

Francis often spoke of building a “Church of the poor, for the poor.” He lived modestly, declined luxurious papal apartments, and was frequently seen reaching out to embrace the sick, the elderly, and the forgotten. His leadership style was less about authority and more about accompaniment.

His efforts were not without criticism—some viewed his stances as too progressive, particularly regarding LGBTQ+ inclusion, the role of women in the Church, and his attempts to decentralize power in the Vatican. Still, he remained steadfast in his mission to guide the Church with a pastoral heart.

Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the camerlengo charged with overseeing Church operations in the time between popes, confirmed the news early Monday. “At 7:35 this morning, Pope Francis, the Bishop of Rome, returned to the house of the Father,” Farrell announced solemnly. “Every moment of his life was poured into the service of Christ and His people.”

Tributes poured in from around the globe. Political leaders, religious figures, and ordinary believers shared stories and condolences, honoring a man who reshaped one of the world’s oldest institutions with simplicity, courage, and love.

Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in the coming days, with millions anticipated to gather in Rome to pay their final respects to the man who brought a renewed spirit to the papacy.