A Tribute to Pope Francis: A Shepherd of Compassion and Change

On Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, the world bid farewell to Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 88 in his residence at the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta. As the first Latin American pontiff, the first Jesuit pope, and a global spiritual leader, Pope Francis—born Jorge Mario Bergoglio—left an indelible mark on the Catholic Church and the world. His papacy, spanning from March 13, 2013, until his death, was defined by humility, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to the marginalized. This tribute reflects on his profound contributions to society, his efforts to bridge divides, and his legacy as a transformative figure for both the Church and the global community.

A Humble Servant of the Poor

From the moment he stepped onto the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica as the 266th pope, choosing the name Francis in honor of St. Francis of Assisi, he signaled a papacy rooted in simplicity and service. His decision to forgo the opulent papal apartments for the modest Casa Santa Marta and his preference for a simple white cassock over lavish vestments were not mere gestures but a reflection of his lifelong dedication to the poor and disenfranchised. As Cardinal Vincent Nichols, Archbishop of Westminster, noted, “Pope Francis was a pope for the poor, the downtrodden, and the forgotten.”

Francis’s advocacy for the marginalized was relentless. He championed the cause of migrants and refugees, famously washing the feet of refugees from different faiths at an asylum center outside Rome in 2016, a powerful act of humility and solidarity. His vocal criticism of policies that separated families at borders, including his rebuke of former U.S. President Donald Trump’s immigration policies, underscored his belief that compassion must transcend political divides. He called for the Church to be a “field hospital” for the wounded, emphasizing outreach to those on society’s fringes—be it the homeless, prisoners, or victims of war.

A Voice for Peace and Reconciliation

In a world marred by conflict, Pope Francis emerged as a tireless advocate for peace. His papacy was marked by bold diplomatic efforts, such as brokering full diplomatic relations between the United States and Cuba in 2015, a historic achievement that eased decades of tension. His visits to conflict-ridden regions, including South Sudan and the United Arab Emirates, where he signed a landmark document on human fraternity with Grand Imam Ahmed Al-Tayeb in 2019, showcased his commitment to interfaith dialogue and reconciliation.

Vatican News described him as a “Pope of peace,” noting his “tireless appeals and constant visits to show his closeness to those suffering the consequences of war.” His condemnation of the arms trade and his calls for global disarmament challenged world leaders to prioritize human dignity over profit. French President Emmanuel Macron lauded his ability to unite people “with one another and with nature,” a testament to his holistic vision of peace.

A Champion of Environmental Stewardship

Pope Francis’s encyclical Laudato Si’ (2015) was a groundbreaking call to action on climate change, urging humanity to care for “our common home.” His emphasis on environmental justice resonated far beyond the Catholic Church, inspiring global movements for sustainability. Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo praised his focus on “ecology at the center of spiritual concerns,” announcing plans to name a site in the French capital after him. His critique of consumerism and exploitation of natural resources challenged wealthy nations to rethink their priorities, earning him admiration from environmentalists and world leaders alike.

King Charles III, in his tribute, highlighted Francis’s belief that “care for Creation is an existential expression of faith in God,” a principle that “resounded with so many across the world.” By framing environmental stewardship as a moral imperative, Francis bridged faith and science, leaving a legacy that will guide future generations.

Reforming the Church with Courage

Pope Francis’s papacy was not without controversy, as he sought to modernize the Catholic Church while navigating deep divisions. His more inclusive stance on issues like homosexuality—famously saying, “If a person is gay and seeks God and has good will, who am I to judge them?”—marked a significant shift in tone, if not doctrine. His efforts to promote synodality, encouraging dialogue and collaboration within the Church, aimed to make it more responsive to contemporary challenges.

However, his reforms faced resistance from conservative factions, particularly in the United States, where some criticized his liberal leanings. His handling of the child sexual abuse scandal, while earnest, fell short of expectations for many, as the Church continued to grapple with systemic issues. Despite these challenges, Francis’s commitment to transparency and accountability, such as reopening the case of accused priest Marko Rupnik, demonstrated his resolve to confront the Church’s failings.

A Global Figure of Humility and Hope

Francis’s personal humility endeared him to millions. Stories of his spontaneous interactions—whether sharing a meal with the poor or engaging in lighthearted conversations about his love for football and tango—humanized the papacy. His ability to connect with people across faiths and cultures was evident in tributes from leaders like Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who expressed being “deeply pained” by his passing, and Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum of Dubai, who called him “a great leader whose compassion and commitment to peace touched countless lives.”

His final public appearance on Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025, just hours before his death, encapsulated his resilience. Despite battling double pneumonia and chronic lung issues, he greeted crowds at St. Peter’s Square with a heartfelt “Happy Easter,” delivering his Urbi et Orbi blessing calling for freedom of thought and tolerance. U.S. Vice President JD Vance, who met him that day, noted his frailty but also his warmth, as Francis gifted chocolate Easter eggs for Vance’s children.

Contributions to Argentina and the Global South

As the first pope from the Americas, Francis brought the perspective of the Global South to the Vatican. His roots in Buenos Aires shaped his focus on social justice, inspired by liberation theology’s emphasis on the poor. In Argentina, he was a unifying figure during turbulent times, calling for national reconciliation during agricultural disputes in 2008. His election as pope was a source of immense pride for Argentines, with the Chamber of Deputies minting a commemorative coin in his honor in 2013.

Francis’s global advocacy for the marginalized elevated the voices of developing nations. His criticism of wealth inequality and his push for fairer economic systems resonated in countries grappling with poverty and exploitation. His papacy was a reminder that leadership could emerge from the peripheries, inspiring hope in regions often overlooked on the world stage.

A Legacy That Endures

Pope Francis’s death triggered an outpouring of grief and gratitude. From the bells of Notre-Dame ringing 88 times in his honor to the Eiffel Tower going dark, the world mourned a leader who touched hearts with his “contagious smile” and “boundless compassion,” as described by King Charles III. The Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell, called him a “holy man of God” whose life was “instantly recognizable as one who followed Jesus.”

His simplified funeral rites, as per his wishes, reflected his desire to be remembered as a pastor, not a prince. As the Catholic Church enters the sede vacante period to elect a new pope, Francis’s legacy will guide its path. His emphasis on mercy, inclusion, and justice has reshaped the Church’s mission, making it more outward-looking and responsive to a fractured world.

Pope Francis was more than a religious leader; he was a moral compass for humanity. His life’s work—serving the poor, fostering peace, protecting the planet, and reforming the Church—will continue to inspire. As we commend his soul to the “infinite merciful love of the One and Triune God,” in the words of Cardinal Kevin Farrell, we give thanks for a shepherd who showed us how to live the Gospel with courage and love.

Rest in peace, Pope Francis. Your light will shine on.