Image by Pete Souza, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
As the first Latin American pope, Francis reformed the Catholic Church with his commitment to humility, social justice, and inclusion. His 12-year pontificate, marked by compassion for the marginalized and his courageous calls for peace, left an indelible mark on the Church and the world.
Rooted in Humility
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis became the first pope from the Americas and the Southern Hemisphere when he was elected in 2013. His choice to live in the modest Casa Santa Marta, rather than the luxurious papal apartments, set the tone for a pontificate defined by simplicity. From washing the feet of refugees to traveling economy class, Francis embodied humble leadership and challenged the Vatican's traditional grandiosity.
His choice of the name Francis was inspired by Saint Francis of Assisi, reflecting his dedication to the poor and the environment. He lived humbly until the end, requesting to be buried in a simple wooden coffin in Rome's Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, rather than an ornate funeral and burial in St. Peter's Basilica.
Defense of Migrants and Refugees
A pillar of Pope Francis's legacy is his unwavering support for migrants and refugees, as the son of two immigrants himself. He affirmed that protecting them was a "duty of civilization" and criticized policies that dehumanized them. Acts such as washing the feet of refugees of different faiths in 2016 were powerful symbols of universal dignity. His first papal trip outside Rome was to Lampedusa, a key entry point for migrants, where he threw a wreath into the sea in memory of those who died crossing the Mediterranean.
A Pope of Peace and Interreligious Dialogue
Pope Francis will be remembered as a peacemaker. He condemned the arms trade, questioning why weapons are sold for profit while innocent lives are lost. During the conflict in Gaza, he called for an immediate ceasefire, denounced violence on both sides, and maintained daily contact with the Church of the Holy Family in Gaza to support its community. As a Spanish-speaking Latin American, he demonstrated great diplomatic efforts as a mediator between the United States and Cuba.
He was committed to fostering unity with other Christian denominations, as well as with Muslims, Hindus, and other religious groups. His approach reflected his vision of a Church open to all.
Pope Francis' Legacy Lives On
Pope Francis's legacy lives on through his call for a Church that serves the poorest and embraces all. As the Vatican prepares for the conclave that will elect his successor, his vision of compassion, peace, and justice will guide the future of the Catholic Church.
For more stories like this, follow More Latin.
Fountain: BBC
English 
Spanish 