Pope Francis (1936–2025): A Compassionate and Controversial Pontificate

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88 due to a stroke and heart failure, as confirmed by Vatican medical officials. His 12-year papacy was characterized by efforts to lead the Catholic Church toward greater inclusivity and humility while also addressing significant internal divisions.​

A Vision of Inclusivity and Social Justice

From the outset, Francis emphasized a pastoral approach, famously stating, “Who am I to judge?” when asked about gay priests in 2013. In 2023, he approved blessings for same-sex couples under specific conditions, a move that highlighted ongoing global divisions within the Church, particularly with African bishops seeking exemptions.​

His commitment to social justice was evident in his advocacy for migrants and the poor. He criticized anti-immigration policies and chose to live modestly, residing in a Vatican guesthouse and using simple vehicles, which reflected his dedication to humility and solidarity with the marginalized.​

Environmental Stewardship and Global Engagement

In 2015, Francis released the encyclical Laudato Si’, addressing climate change and criticizing capitalism’s environmental impact. He continued this focus with Laudate Deum in 2023, urging global cooperation to combat environmental degradation. Francis also prioritized interfaith dialogue, engaging with leaders of various religions to promote unity and peace. His 2024 statement recognizing other religions as paths to God sparked debate, with some viewing it as undermining Christian exclusivity.​

Church Reforms and Challenges

Francis initiated significant reforms in the Church’s governance. In 2022, he restructured the Roman Curia through the apostolic constitution Praedicate Evangelium, aiming for a more missionary-oriented Church. He also tackled financial corruption and diversified the College of Cardinals by appointing 80% of the current electors, thus globalizing Church leadership.​ Despite these efforts, his handling of the clergy abuse crisis faced criticism. Although he implemented measures like Vos Estis Lux Mundi in 2019 to hold bishops accountable, some survivors and advocates felt that the actions lacked transparency and decisiveness.​

Tensions with Traditionalists

Francis faced opposition from conservative factions within the Church. His restrictions on the traditional Latin Mass and the excommunication of Archbishop Carlo Maria Viganò for schism exemplified these tensions. His approach to issues such as communion for divorced and remarried Catholics further fueled debates over doctrinal clarity.​

A Global Perspective

As the first pope from the Global South, Francis shifted the Church’s focus beyond Europe. He canonized numerous saints from diverse backgrounds and engaged in diplomacy, including efforts to restore U.S.-Cuba relations and a controversial agreement with China regarding bishop appointments.​

Looking Ahead: The 2025 Conclave

The College of Cardinals is set to convene in May 2025 to elect Francis’s successor. With 80% of the electors appointed by Francis, the conclave may pursue his vision of a more inclusive Church. Potential candidates include Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle of the Philippines, who is recognized for aligning with Francis’s pastoral approach.

Pope Francis’s papacy was marked by a commitment to inclusivity, social justice, and environmental stewardship, while also managing internal Church divisions. His reforms and global perspective have made a lasting impact, setting the stage for the Church’s future direction.​