🕊️ Pope Francis Passes Away at 88: The World Mourns a Humble Shepherd

Vatican City | June 2025 — The world is in mourning as Pope Francis, spiritual leader of over a billion Catholics and a global icon of humility and compassion, has passed away at the age of 88. His death occurred peacefully at Casa Santa Marta, his longtime residence in Vatican City, bringing to a close one of the most transformative papacies in modern history.

Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis was the first Jesuit pope, the first from the Americas, and the first non-European pope in over 1,200 years. His election in 2013 marked the beginning of a new era of openness, reform, and compassion within the Catholic Church.

🔗 CBC News confirms his passing
🔗 Ave Maria Press tribute to Pope Francis

🙏 A Papacy Defined by Humility and Action

Throughout his 12-year papacy, Pope Francis championed the causes of the poor, marginalized, and oppressed, continuously reminding the world that the Church’s mission was to serve humanity first.

• He declined the lavish Papal Palace in favor of a modest guesthouse.

• He washed the feet of prisoners and refugees during Holy Week rituals.

• He called for global action on climate change in his landmark encyclical Laudato Si’.

• He opened interfaith dialogue and worked to bridge divides across religions.

🌍 A Global Impact Beyond the Vatican

Tributes have poured in from world leaders, faith organizations, and millions of people around the globe.

• Italy’s President called him “a moral compass in turbulent times.”

• The UN Secretary-General praised him for “elevating justice, mercy, and human dignity.”

Churches from Latin America to Africa to Asia have announced special Masses in his honor.

🕯️ Funeral and Transition

Preparations are underway at St. Peter’s Basilica for Pope Francis’s funeral rites. A global day of mourning has been declared by the Vatican. Following the traditional nine-day mourning period (Novemdiales), the College of Cardinals will convene for the conclave to elect the next pope.

✝️ Legacy That Lives On

Pope Francis leaves behind a legacy rooted in mercy, simplicity, and reform. His emphasis on listening, outreach, and pastoral care reshaped the global image of the Catholic Church.

A former chemist with only one functioning lung, he led the Church with spiritual strength and personal resilience, never allowing his health challenges to limit his service.

“Let us carry his message forward — of love, justice, and unity.”
— Vatican Spokesperson, June 2025

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📝 Final Thought:

Pope Francis may be gone, but his voice will echo in sermons, policy debates, and acts of kindness for generations. As millions bid farewell, his call to “go to the margins” remains a guiding principle for both Church and world.