POPE FRANCIS DIES AT 88: A LEGACY OF COMPASSION, REFORM, AND CONTROVERSY

An Emirati Magazine publication – Released on April 21,2025 | www.emiratimagazine.com

Pope Francis, who passed away at 88, led the Catholic Church from 2013 with a reformist zeal that inspired many and challenged traditionalists. Known for his compassion-first approach, he reshaped Church views on abortion, LGBTQ inclusion, and the death penalty, while maintaining traditional stances like priestly celibacy and opposition to artificial birth control. He was a fierce advocate for migrants, environmental justice, and interfaith dialogue, becoming the first pope to visit Iraq and the UAE.

Image Source: www.wikipedia.org

Francis also tackled Vatican corruption and financial opacity, appointing women to leadership roles and pushing for broader Church accountability. Despite missteps in handling sexual abuse cases, he took historic steps to hold clergy accountable. His papacy embraced the marginalized — Indigenous peoples, the poor, and refugees — and rejected nuclear weapons as immoral. Though he upheld doctrine, he left space for pastoral flexibility, forever marking his legacy as one of bold, compassionate leadership and humble courage.