Was Pope Francis a transformative figure, or did his papacy ultimately fall short of its ambitious goals? The death of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025, at his residence, marked not only the end of an era for the Vatican but also the passing of a pontiff whose commitment to the poor and marginalized profoundly shaped his time in office.
The world mourned the loss of a leader who, despite his age of 88, on Easter Monday, left an undeniable mark on the Catholic Church and global discourse. Pope Francis, a voice for the poor who overcame fierce resistance to reshape the Catholic Church, died of a stroke and heart failure, the Vatican announced. He was best known for urging concern for the poor. His focus on the impoverished, the excluded, and the vulnerable was more than a rhetorical flourish; it was the very core of his papacy. His actions and words consistently reflected a deep-seated belief that the Church must prioritize those on the margins of society, a conviction that resonated globally.
To understand the depth of Pope Francis' impact, consider this table:
| Full Name | Jorge Mario Bergoglio |
| Born | December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina |
| Died | April 21, 2025, in Vatican City |
| Papal Name | Francis |
| Elected Pope | March 13, 2013 |
| Previous Position | Archbishop of Buenos Aires (1998-2013), Cardinal (2001) |
| Key Initiatives | World Day of the Poor, focus on social justice, environmental concerns (Laudato Si') |
| Known For | Humility, compassion, outreach to the marginalized, reform of the Church |
| Interesting Fact | First Jesuit Pope and the first from the Americas. Chose his name to honor Saint Francis of Assisi. |
| Reference | Vatican Website |
Pope Francis was the first pope from the Americas, he chose the name "Francis" in honor of Saint Francis of Assisi, a figure synonymous with poverty and simplicity. This choice, immediately, signaled his intent to lead a "church which is poor and for the poor!" His love for the poor was not a mere statement; it was a lived reality, embodied in his actions, pronouncements, and the very name he chose. The last people to bid farewell to Pope Francis before his burial were the poor, the trans community, and prisoners. He reached out personally to the poor and showed his concern for the poor. For example, he turned a Vatican plaza into a refuge for the homeless, whom he called "nobles of the street."
In 2017, he established the World Day of the Poor, urging Catholics worldwide to translate their faith into action through service and solidarity. The annual commemoration, observed on the third Sunday of November, has provided a global platform to advocate for the needs of the impoverished. The 2024 edition, the eighth since its inception, coincided with the preparations for the 2025 Jubilee Year, adding an extra layer of significance to the event. The theme for the World Day of the Poor, the pope stressed, emphasized the importance of putting our faith into practice through personal involvement that cannot be delegated to others.
This dedication to the poor was evident long before he ascended to the papacy. The pope already did a lot for the poor in his diocese during his time as archbishop of Buenos Aires. "Be poor among the poor," he urged. "We need to include the excluded and preach peace." His message for the 6th World Day of the Poor, Pope Francis invites Christians to greater solidarity and responsibility for the poor in society. The call to "combat poverty and at the same time learn from the poor" encapsulates his belief in a reciprocal relationship, where both the giver and the receiver are transformed.
The impact of his message extended beyond the religious realm. Keir Starmer, for instance, paid tribute to Pope Francis as a "pope for the poor," reflecting the widespread recognition of his commitment to social justice. Many celebrated his humility and concern for the poor. Pope Francis stressed that the poor and marginalized "have no choice but to continue to wait" and urged the church to work with governments and international organizations to support them.
However, the story of Pope Francis is not without its complexities. Some critics, like the argentine journalist Miguel Hirsch, have pointed out that even on the priorities he set for his papacy, his legacy was disappointing. While he meant well in showing compassion for the poor, the impact of some of his policies remains a subject of debate. When Nicols Maduro took over in Venezuela in 2019, he talked incessantly about the plight of the poor. Meanwhile, he is living a luxurious lifestyle and has devastated the economy with his socialist policies.
Pope Francis' words, published in "Crisis Magazine" in June 2013, echo his fundamental beliefs. The article, "Pope Francis on the true meaning of poverty," underscores his unwavering commitment to the cause. His conviction that the Church must prioritize the marginalized is evident in every aspect of his work. His leadership embodies the words of Matthew 25:40. "The prayer of the poor rises up to God" is the theme for this years world day of the poor.
This commitment wasn't just about grand gestures. It was about consistent, practical action. During his time as Archbishop of Buenos Aires, he was known for his tireless efforts to support the poor and marginalized, a pattern that continued throughout his papacy. His focus on the impoverished, the excluded, and the vulnerable was more than a rhetorical flourish; it was the very core of his papacy.
The legacy of Pope Francis is complex, a tapestry woven with threads of profound compassion and bold reforms. His death marks not only the end of his earthly life but the enduring presence of his vision for a Church that centers the marginalized. He wanted a 'world without poverty.'"
