In recent years, Pope Francis has been an extremely vocal supporter of the Palestinian cause - reportedly having direct communication with the besieged communities in Gaza, offering prayers and words of encouragement.
NBC News
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88, following a prolonged illness. His death occurred at his residence in the Vatican's Casa Santa Marta, a day after delivering his final Easter blessing from St. Peter's Basilica.
Over the years, Pope Francis has gained his popularity among youth for being a vocal advocate for the poor, refugees, and marginalized communities. In recent years, Pope Francis has been an extremely vocal supporter of the Palestinian cause - reportedly having direct communication with the besieged communities in Gaza, offering prayers and words of encouragement.
Pope Francis was born on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina to Italian parents. Prior to marking his legacy as a Pope, he pursued a career as a chemical technician before entering the Society of Jesus in 1958. From here, he was ordained as a priest in 1969 and became Archbishop of Buenos Aires in 1998. He was elected the 266th pope on March 13, 2013 – starting the mark of his papacy and legacy to becoming known for his humanity and dedication to social justice.
Pope Francis's leadership was marked by a commitment to inclusivity, humility, and social justice. His efforts to reform the Catholic Church and address global issues have left a lasting impact on the world. As tributes pour in from around the globe, he is remembered as a pope who sought to bridge divides and champion the cause of the oppressed.
