Pope Francis, the first pontiff from the Global South and the first non-European pope in over a millennium, is remembered for his impactful legacy in mercy, service, financial reform, and environmental protection. Throughout his 12-year papacy before his death on April 21, 2025, he focused on supporting marginalized communities and promoting equality within the Church. He was renowned for his humility and direct engagement with people from all walks of life, from the impoverished to world leaders. Pope Francis also implemented significant reforms in the Vatican Bank to ensure ethical business practices and was a strong advocate for addressing financial corruption. His papacy was marked by acts of service, such as washing the feet of prisoners, and his commitment to reaching out to those at the margins of society globally, demonstrating a deep care for humanity and the planet alike.

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, served as the Catholic Church's leader for 12 years, remembered for his dedication to mercy, service, and environmental protection.

He was a trailblazer as the first pontiff from the Global South and the first non-European pope in over a millennium, known as 'the People’s Pope' for his efforts to support overlooked communities and promote equality.

His papacy was characterized by personal humility and direct engagement with individuals, from the most impoverished to influential world leaders, emphasizing that everyone deserved a blessing.

Pope Francis enacted reforms at the Vatican Bank to combat financial corruption, ensuring that charitable and business practices were ethical and transparent.

Demonstrating a commitment to service, he engaged in acts such as washing the feet of men, women, and children, including prisoners, during annual Holy Thursday rituals.

He advocated for a global Church, responding to people from various countries and continents while addressing issues such as the lack of clergy in marginalized areas.

Pope Francis’ burial wishes reflected his humility; he chose a simple wooden coffin and a resting place at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, emphasizing his desire to be treated as an ordinary person even in death.