Vatican City – In a monumental loss to the global Catholic community and the wider world, Pope Francis, the 266th Pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church, died on Monday at the age of 88, following a prolonged illness. The Vatican confirmed that he passed away peacefully at 7:35 AM local time. As the first non-European Pope in over 1300 years, his death marks the end of one of the most transformative papacies in modern history.
A Historic and Trailblazing Papacy
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis shattered centuries of tradition when he was elected in 2013. A Jesuit by order and Latin American by birth, he brought a refreshing wave of humility, simplicity, and inclusion to the papacy. Widely recognized for his progressive tone and focus on the poor and marginalized, Pope Francis quickly became a globally respected figure far beyond the Catholic Church.
He chose the name Francis in honor of Saint Francis of Assisi, a symbol of poverty, humility, and peace. True to that legacy, his leadership reflected a deep moral commitment to the poor, the environment, interfaith harmony, and human dignity.
Condolences From World Leaders
News of Pope Francis’s passing has led to an outpouring of grief from world leaders and religious figures across the globe. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the Pope’s demise, writing on social media:
“Deeply saddened by the demise of Pope Francis. In this hour of grief and remembrance, my heartfelt condolences to the global Catholic community. He will be remembered as a symbol of compassion, humility, and spiritual courage.”
Modi also recalled his personal meetings with the Pope, noting how inspired he was by the Pontiff’s vision for inclusive and sustainable development. He further praised Pope Francis’s lifelong dedication to the teachings of Jesus Christ and his unwavering advocacy for the underprivileged.
Indian Political Spectrum Pays Tribute
Reactions in India cut across political lines. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge stated that the entire world mourns the loss of a spiritual icon. His message read:
“Pope Francis was a towering humanitarian figure who will be remembered for fostering interfaith understanding, championing global peace, and leaving behind a remarkable legacy.”
Rahul Gandhi, Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, also paid homage to the Pope, calling him a global voice for justice, compassion, and peace.
“He stood with the marginalized, fearlessly spoke against inequality, and inspired millions across faiths with his message of love and humanity.”
Delhi’s former Chief Minister and AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal described Pope Francis as a true embodiment of humility and spiritual strength, offering condolences to all those mourning the loss.
A Global Force for Change
Pope Francis’s legacy extends far beyond the Vatican walls. Over the course of his papacy, he became known as a vocal advocate for climate action, social justice, economic equity, and interfaith solidarity. His 2015 encyclical Laudato Si’ became a turning point in the Church’s engagement with environmental issues, urging urgent action to protect the planet.
Key Milestones of His Papacy
First Latin American and Jesuit Pope
First Pope in modern times to live outside the Apostolic Palace
Initiated financial and structural reforms within the Vatican
Advocated for Church accountability in the wake of sexual abuse scandals
Opened up discussions on controversial issues such as civil unions and women’s roles in the Church
Strengthened Catholic-Muslim relations with his historic visit to the Arabian Peninsula
Public Mourning and Funeral Plans
The Vatican has announced a week of mourning, with funeral arrangements expected to draw world leaders, dignitaries, and millions of mourners. Cardinal Kevin Farrell announced the Pope’s death live on international television, urging the faithful to honor his life through prayer and service.
Across cathedrals and churches, the faithful gathered in somber reflection, lighting candles and offering prayers. In India, Catholic parishes in cities like Mumbai, Goa, Kochi, and Shillong have scheduled special memorial masses to honor the late Pontiff’s legacy.
Legacy of a Humble Shepherd
Pope Francis will be remembered as a Pope who broke barriers. He redefined the image of the papacy—not as a figure of power and formality, but as a humble servant of the people. Whether it was rejecting luxury, speaking directly to the people during his travels, or engaging openly with youth and dissenting voices, his approach was profoundly inclusive and human.
His mission was clear: to lead a Church that listens, learns, and lives out the Gospel through acts of mercy, compassion, and service. Under his leadership, the Vatican became a louder voice on issues of global concern, including climate change, conflict, inequality, and religious persecution.
A World Without Pope Francis
The void left by Pope Francis’s passing will be felt deeply across continents, denominations, and generations. His was a papacy that resonated with believers and non-believers alike, one that emphasized faith in action, dialogue over division, and unity in diversity.
Pope Francis’s journey—from the streets of Buenos Aires to the highest office in the Catholic Church—will forever stand as a testament to the power of humility, the strength of conviction, and the boundless reach of compassion.
