On 21 April 2025, the Vatican confirmed that Pope Francis is no longer in this world. He died at the age of 88, but the legacy he left behind will live on in the hearts of Catholics around the world.
He was not just a traditional Pope who was limited to Rome. His heart was with those who lived on the margins of society – the poor, the marginalized, and all those who had no voice.
His leadership style was different – humble, grounded, and full of humanity. Pope Francis tried to connect the Church with the world by taking it out of a closed institution. He showed that being a Pope means not just power, but also service.
His death is not just the death of a human being – it is the result of an approach, a thought and a compassion-filled leadership.
Today the world is remembering him as a leader who lived not only in Rome, but in every heart.
Pope Francis tried to make the Church more inclusive during his pontificate. His focus was that the Church should not remain just a closed institution, but should keep moving with the world. Be it raising voice for poor people or addressing issues like climate change – his vision was broad and human-centric.
Be it a sensitive issue like the sexual abuse crisis or the Church’s financial transparency – Pope Francis did not ignore uncomfortable topics. But now that he is no longer there, the big question is whether his vision will remain alive in the future? The Cardinals now have a critical decision: will they follow Francis’ path, or take the Church back to the old doctrinal lines?
In his lifetime, he dialogued with Muslims around the world, opened up conversations on sensitive topics like same-sex couples and divorced people. But his journey was not easy – he removed several powerful conservative officials who were against reform.
His departure does not just mean the departure of a Pope, but could also mean the end of an approach. Now what should the world expect from the Church? It will depend on the next Pope.
Rest in peace, Pope Francis. You tried to make the world a better place – and for this the world will always be grateful to you.
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