Pope-Francis-Passes-Away-at-88-PM-Modi-Pays-Heartfelt-Tribute-to-the-People’s-PontiffPope Francis dies at 88 as PM Modi leads global tributes to the compassionate spiritual leader

 

Pope Francis, the 266th and the first Latin American pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church, has passed away at the age of 88. The pontiff breathed his last on Easter Monday at 7:35 AM local time in his residence at the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta, after a protracted illness.

He was born on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, under the name Jorge Mario Bengoglio. His papacy election in 2023, following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI, was significant because he became the first Jesuit pope and also the first pope to come from the Americas.

 

Emphasis on Social Justice and Environmental Awareness

 

The more than 12-year papacy of Pope Francis was marked by dedication to social justice, humility, and broad-mindedness. The informal pope eschewed living in the papal apartments for residence in the guesthouse of the Vatican, an act symbolic of his style as a leader. His attempt at church reform and the resolution of problems affecting the globe made him a top 21st-century influential religious figure.

A staunch advocate for the poor, marginalized, and displaced, Pope Francis’ focus on social justice became one of the defining aspects of his leadership. His 2025 encyclical Laudato si’, which called for urgent action to combat climate change, further solidified his position as a moral leader on global environmental issues.

 

A Balance of Tradition and Reform

 

Although he had modernizing ideas, such as championing women’s work in the Church and opening the door to the LGBTQ+ community, Pope Francis walked a thin line between change and tradition. His iconic line, “Who am I to judge?” was an exemplar of his open-minded policy.

 

Final Days and Public Tributes

 

Over the past few weeks, Pope Francis has been fighting chronic lung problems and pneumonia. Despite his health issues, he appeared in public one last time during the Easter Sunday festivities, giving his final ‘Urbi et Orbi’ blessing from the loggia of St Peter’s Basilica.

 

Global Leaders Mourn Loss

 

Tributes flowed in from the world, celebrating the pope’s compassionate legacy. Argentina President Javier Milei was full of sadness, labeling Pope Francis as a symbol of hope and unity. Fresh President Emmanuel Macron referred to the pope as a humble man who stood with the weak.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, taking to X, formerly known as Twitter posted, “Deeply pained by the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. In this hour of grief and remembrance, my heartfelt condolences to the global Catholic community. Pope Francis will always be remembered as a beacon of compassion, humility and spiritual courage by millions across the world. From a young age, he devoted himself towards realizing the ideals of Lord Christ

He further added, stating that the pope has served the poor and downtrodden diligently, “For those who were suffering, he ignited a spirit of hope. I fondly recall my meetings with him and was greatly inspired by his commitment to inclusive and all-round development. His affection for the people of India will always be cherished. May his soul find eternal peace in God’s embrace.”

The Future of Catholic Church

 

With the death of Pope Francis, the Catholic Church today moves into mourning. The Vatican confirmed that the conclave to elect his successor will commence in early May, and the College of Cardinals will meet to commence in early May, and the College of Cardinals will meet to conduct the papal conclave. Pope Francis is left with a rich legacy of mercy, hospitality, and uncompromising commitment to serving humanity.