A quick tribute to His Holiness Pope Francis, who was before passing away the 266th Pope of the Roman Catholic Church. Pope Francis, whose full name is Jorge Mario Bergoglio, was born on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina. He belonged to the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) and was ordained as a priest on December 13, 1969, and elevated to the cardinal position on February 21, 2001, by Pope John Paul II.
His Holiness Pope Francis was elected pope on March 13, 2013, succeeding Pope Benedict XVI. Pope Francis died on the 21st of April, 2025, at the age of 88. This marks a papacy duration of 12 years (2013–2025). As announced by the Vatican, Pope Francis died from a combination of medical complications, a cerebral stroke that led to a coma, followed by heart failure.
When he was elected pope in 2013, he chose the name “Francis” in honor of Saint Francis of Assisi, known for his humility, poverty, and love for peace and creation. These are the values Pope Francis deeply admired and embodied throughout his papacy. He was also the first pope to take the name Francis. In addition, he was the first Jesuit pope, the first from the Americas, and the first non-European pope in over 1,200 years.
During his time as pope, Pope Francis was involved in some critical highlights within the Christian community and in setting the records straight. For example, he approved blessings for same-sex couples, emphasizing pastoral care while upholding traditional marriage doctrine. Furthermore, he adopted a more inclusive tone towards LGBTQ+ individuals, focusing on compassion and understanding of individual choices and human rights.
Additionally, Pope Francis implemented new procedures for reporting abuse and holding bishops accountable through Vos estis lux mundi, maintained the discipline of priestly celibacy but showed openness to discussion, especially in regions facing priest shortages and upheld the Church’s pro-life stance while extending compassion and forgiveness to those affected.
Succession: The Path to the Next Pope
There are approximately 135 cardinals under the age of 80. Pope Francis appointed over 80% of the current electors, reflecting his vision for a more inclusive Church. The assembly of cardinals for the election of a pope (conclave) is expected to commence between May 5 and May 10, 2025, following the traditional nine-day mourning period, with the election hoped to take place at the Sistine Chapel, requiring a two-thirds majority vote. White smoke signals a successful election.
Potential Successors
The following from the conclave are likely successors of the pope:
- Cardinal Pietro Parolin (Italy): Vatican Secretary of State, known for diplomatic acumen.
- Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle (Philippines): Prefect of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples, advocate for the poor.
- Cardinal Peter Turkson (Ghana): Prominent voice on social justice and environmental issues.
- Cardinal Matteo Zuppi (Italy): Archbishop of Bologna, noted for pastoral outreach.
- Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo (Democratic Republic of Congo): Archbishop of Kinshasa, influential in African Church affairs.
Pope Francis’s papacy was marked by a profound commitment to humility, inclusivity, and reform. Being the first Jesuit and Latin American pope, he brought a fresh perspective to the papacy. His dedication to social justice, environmental stewardship, and compassionate outreach to marginalized communities has left an indelible mark on the Catholic Church and the world.
May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace.
