Pope Francis

Pope Francis, originally named Jorge Mario Bergoglio, was born on December 17, 1936, and served as the leader of the Catholic Church and the sovereign of Vatican City State from March 13, 2013, until his passing on April 21, 2025. He made history as the first pope hailing from the Society of Jesus, commonly known as the Jesuit Order. Additionally, he was groundbreaking as the inaugural pope from both the Americas and the Southern Hemisphere. Notably, he was also the first pontiff to be born or raised outside of Europe since Pope Gregory III, who reigned in the 8th century and was of Syrian descent.

Pope Francis was recognized for his efforts to promote social justice, interfaith dialogue, and environmental stewardship. His tenure was marked by a focus on inclusivity and compassion, aiming to address contemporary issues affecting the global community. Throughout his papacy, he emphasized the Church's mission to serve the marginalized and uphold the dignity of every individual. His profound influence extended beyond faith, impacting societal norms and international relations during a transformative period in history. His legacy continues to resonate within the Church and among followers worldwide.