‘Pope Francis has returned to the home of the Father’: Vatican in video statement 2025 best
Pope Francis, the 266th leader of the Roman Catholic Church and its first Latin American pontiff, passed away on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. ‘Pope Francis has returned to the home of the Father’: Vatican in video statement 2025 best His death marks the end of a transformative 12-year papacy characterized by humility, progressive reforms, and a deep commitment to social justice.
Early Life and Rise to the Papacy
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis was the son of Italian immigrants. He pursued a career in chemistry before entering the seminary, joining the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) in 1958. Ordained as a priest in 1969, ‘Pope Francis has returned to the home of the Father’: Vatican in video statement 2025 best he rose through the ranks to become Archbishop of Buenos Aires in 1998 and was appointed cardinal by Pope John Paul II in 2001.
In March 2013, following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI, Bergoglio was elected pope, taking the name Francis in honor of St. Francis of Assisi. ‘Pope Francis has returned to the home of the Father’: Vatican in video statement 2025 best His election was historic, as he became the first Jesuit pope, the first from the Americas, and the first non-European pope in over a millennium.
A Papacy of Compassion and Reform
Pope Francis’s tenure was marked by a focus on compassion, inclusivity, and addressing global issues. He emphasized the Church’s role in advocating for the poor, ‘Pope Francis has returned to the home of the Father’: Vatican in video statement 2025 best marginalized, and the environment. His encyclical “Laudato Si'” called for urgent action on climate change, highlighting the moral imperative to protect the planet.
He also sought to modernize the Church’s approach to various social issues. While upholding traditional teachings on matters like abortion and the ordination of women, he adopted a more pastoral tone, famously stating, “Who am I to judge?” in reference to LGBTQ+ individuals. His efforts to decentralize Church governance and promote synodality aimed to make the Church more responsive to local contexts and voices.
Health Challenges and Final Days
Pope Francis faced several health challenges during his papacy. In early 2025, he was hospitalized for 38 days due to double pneumonia. Despite his illness, ‘Pope Francis has returned to the home of the Father’: Vatican in video statement 2025 best he made a final public appearance on Easter Sunday, blessing thousands at St. Peter’s Square. He passed away the following morning at 7:35 AM CEST at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta. His death was announced by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber.
Global Tributes and Mourning
World leaders and religious figures paid tribute to Pope Francis’s legacy. U.S. Vice President JD Vance, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen acknowledged his moral vision and dedication to social justice. ‘Pope Francis has returned to the home of the Father’: Vatican in video statement 2025 best Former Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby praised his efforts to foster interfaith dialogue and compassion.
In Italy, the impact of his death was felt deeply. Serie A football matches were postponed in mourning, with clubs like AS Roma and Lazio honoring his contributions to promoting unity and values through sport.
Funeral Arrangements and Succession
Pope Francis expressed a desire to be buried at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. Following his death, the Vatican entered a period of mourning known as “sede vacante.” ‘Pope Francis has returned to the home of the Father’: Vatican in video statement 2025 best A conclave to elect his successor is scheduled to begin between May 6 and May 11, 2025, in the Sistine Chapel. The College of Cardinals, comprising 135 electors under the age of 80, will convene to choose the next pope.
Legacy
Pope Francis leaves behind a complex yet impactful legacy. He was a pope who bridged faith and social justice, challenged the status quo, and brought a renewed sense of humility to the papacy. His emphasis on mercy, care for the environment, and outreach to the marginalized reshaped the global perception of the Catholic Church.
As the Church prepares to elect a new leader, Pope Francis’s influence will continue to resonate, guiding future directions and inspiring continued dialogue on the role of faith in addressing contemporary challenges.
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