Pope Francis passes away at 88: His final message calls for peace and unity

Pope Francis, the first Latin American pope, passed away at the age of 88 on Monday, April 21, 2025. He had been battling a prolonged illness and was known for his health struggles, including chronic lung disease. His death marks the end of a significant chapter for the Catholic Church and the world.

A legacy of compassion

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina, was elected as the 266th pope in 2013. Throughout his papacy, he became a symbol of humility, compassion, and commitment to the poor. He was often referred to as the "pope of the slums" because of his deep concern for the marginalized and his critique of economic inequality. He was also a vocal advocate for social justice and environmental protection, famously calling for action on climate change and advocating for the rights of refugees and immigrants.

One of the key aspects of his leadership was his focus on peace and dialogue. He constantly sought to build bridges between different religions and cultures. He worked tirelessly to promote interfaith dialogue, including efforts to improve relations between the Catholic Church and other religious communities, such as Jews and Muslims.

His final message for peace

Pope Francis's last public message, delivered on Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025, was one of hope and peace. In his message, he called for an end to the war in Ukraine and for lasting peace in the world. He urged that true peace could only be achieved through freedom of religion, thought, and expression, and emphasized the importance of disarmament. He warned against the dangers of a global arms race, urging the world to prioritize dialogue and understanding over violence and conflict.

During this final Easter message, Pope Francis also prayed for the people of Myanmar, Sudan, and Africa, highlighting the struggles faced by people affected by war and violence. He expressed hope for a ceasefire in Myanmar and for peace to prevail in regions suffering from prolonged conflicts.

"May the risen Christ grant Ukraine, devastated by war, his Easter gift of peace, and encourage all parties involved to pursue efforts aimed at achieving a just and lasting peace," Pope Francis said in his message, adding that peace was the key to restoring harmony in the world.

He also prayed for the people in Myanmar, who have been enduring both armed conflict and the aftermath of a devastating earthquake. He expressed his gratitude to volunteers and relief workers who had been helping the affected communities.

Pope Francis's passing came after a long struggle with health issues. He had suffered from chronic lung disease and had even had part of one lung removed when he was young. His declining health had led to his hospitalization several times during his papacy, but he remained committed to his duties until his final days.

His death was announced by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, who shared the news with the world through the Vatican's Telegram channel. "This morning at 7:35 am (0535 GMT), the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father," Cardinal Farrell said, confirming the pope's passing.

Pope Francis's death marks the end of his 12-year papacy, which was defined by efforts to modernize the Catholic Church and address contemporary issues such as poverty, climate change, and the need for social justice. His leadership was characterized by humility, as he consistently sought to align the teachings of the Church with the values of kindness, equality, and compassion.

In his final days, Pope Francis remained focused on his mission of peace, and his last message reflects his enduring hope for a world free from violence and suffering. His calls for peace and justice, particularly in the face of global conflicts, will likely resonate with many for years to come.

ALSO READ: Hindu leader reportedly kidnapped and killed in Bangladesh, investigation underway

ALSO READ: Storms may spoil Lyrid meteor shower viewing: What you should know

Pope's legacy and the future of the Catholic Church

As the world mourns Pope Francis's death, his legacy will continue to inspire millions. His leadership was marked by a deep empathy for the world's most vulnerable, and his call for peace and reconciliation transcended religious and cultural boundaries. The Catholic Church, as well as the broader global community, will remember Pope Francis as a leader who used his position to advocate for justice, compassion, and global solidarity.

With Pope Francis’s passing, the question of who will succeed him now arises. The next pope will inherit a Church that has been significantly shaped by Pope Francis's vision, and the world will be watching to see how the legacy of peace, compassion, and social justice he championed will continue to influence the Church’s direction in the future.