Pope Francis, whose secular name is Jorge Mario Bergoglio, has established himself as one of the most influential and transformative figures in the Catholic Church in the 21st century. Elected on March 13, 2013, as the successor of Saint Peter, a profound commitment to the poor, social justice, mercy, and pastoral renewal has marked his pontificate. From his earliest actions to his encyclicals and apostolic exhortations, Pope Francis has left an indelible mark on the life of the Church and the entire world.

A Pontificate Centered on Mercy

One of the pillars of Pope Francis’s pontificate has been his insistence on divine mercy as the heart of the Gospel. In 2015, he proclaimed an Extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy, emphasizing that “mercy is the ultimate and supreme act by which God comes to encounter us” (Misericordiae Vultus, 2). This approach has inspired millions of faithful to rediscover God’s compassion and live it out in their communities.

His encyclical Evangelii Gaudium (2013) also marked a milestone, inviting the Church to be an “outgoing Church,” bringing Christ’s message to the existential peripheries. Francis has insisted that the Church cannot be inward-looking, but must be a refuge for the marginalized, the poor, and those who suffer.

A Leader Committed to the Poor and Social Justice

Pope Francis has been a tireless advocate for the most vulnerable. His preferential option for the poor has been manifested in his words and actions. In his apostolic exhortation Amoris Laetitia (2016), he addressed crucial themes such as family and love, always with a pastoral approach that seeks to accompany people in their concrete realities.

Furthermore, his encyclical Laudato Si’ (2015) was an urgent call to care for our “common home,” highlighting the connection between the environmental crisis and social injustice. Francis denounced rampant consumerism and called for an ecological conversion that respects creation and promotes the well-being of all, especially the poorest.

Reform and Renewal in the Church

Francis’s pontificate has also been marked by significant efforts to reform Church structures. He has promoted greater transparency in Vatican finances and worked to combat abuses of power and sexual abuse scandals. In 2019, he convened a historic meeting with the leaders of the world’s episcopal conferences to address this scourge, emphasizing the need for justice, prevention, and healing for victims.

Furthermore, he has promoted greater synodality—a style of Church that journeys together, listening to all the baptized. The Synod on Synodality, which began in 2021, is a clear example of his desire for the Church to be more inclusive and participatory.

A Message of Hope for the World

Pope Francis has been a prophetic voice in a world marked by conflict, inequality, and division. He has advocated for peace in war zones, denounced indifference toward migrants and refugees, and promoted interreligious dialogue as a path to building human fraternity. His encyclical Fratelli Tutti (2020) is a call to overcome cultural, political, and religious barriers to work together for a more just and supportive world.

His approachable and humble style has resonated deeply with people of all faiths. Since his election, he has chosen to live in the Casa Santa Marta instead of the Apostolic Palace, symbolizing his desire for a simpler Church closer to the people.

An Inspiring Pontificate

Pope Francis has demonstrated that leadership in the Church is not about power, but about service. His pontificate has been a living witness to the Gospel, reminding us that God’s love is for all, especially those most in need. In a world that often seems divided and hopeless, his message of mercy, justice, and fraternity remains a beacon of light.

As he himself has said, “God’s love knows no boundaries, and the Church must always be the Father’s open house” (Evangelii Gaudium, 47). Pope Francis invites us all to be part of this mission, bringing Christ’s love to every corner of the world.