Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, was the first pope from the Americas and the first Jesuit to lead the Catholic Church. Before his election as pope on March 13, 2013, he served as Archbishop of Buenos Aires, where he was known for his humility, simple lifestyle, and dedication to the poor.

Raised in a family of Italian immigrants, he studied chemistry before entering the seminary and joining the Jesuits. Ordained a priest in 1969, he later became the Provincial of the Jesuits in Argentina and played a key role in guiding the Church during a period of economic and social crises in the country. When he was appointed bishop in 1992 and archbishop in 1998, he prioritized evangelization, social justice, and pastoral outreach.

As pope, Francis emphasized mercy, care for the marginalized, and environmental stewardship. His papacy was marked by a call for a “poor Church for the poor,” interfaith dialogue, and reform within the Vatican. His teachings focused on compassion, the dignity of every person, and the need for a missionary Church.

On April 21, 2025, Pope Francis passed away, leaving behind a legacy of love, humility, and service.