The Council for World Mission (CWM) mourns the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, the first Latin American leader of the Roman Catholic Church. According to a Vatican spokesperson, Pope Francis passed away peacefully on Monday, 21 April, at Casa Santa Marta—a guesthouse near St Peter’s Basilica where he had chosen to reside since his election in 2013.
Born in 1936, Jorge Mario Bergoglio, Pope Francis was elected to the papacy in March 2013 following the historic resignation of Pope Benedict XVI. From the outset of his pontificate, he embodied humility and simplicity, notably declining to move into the traditional Papal apartments. Instead, he remained in modest accommodation at the Vatican guesthouse, sharing meals with other residents.
Pope Francis’s vision for the church was deeply rooted in “missionary discipleship”—a call for all Christians to share their encounter with Jesus Christ in everyday life. He wrote, “Every Christian is challenged, here and now, to be actively engaged in evangelization; indeed, anyone who has truly experienced God’s saving love does not need much time or lengthy training to go out and proclaim that love.” For Francis, missionary discipleship was not an abstract idea but a practical and profound expression of faith, urging believers to build the Kingdom of God through lives of love, justice, and mercy.
Reflecting on his legacy, Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, said: “His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of His Church. He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage, and universal love, especially in favour of the poorest and most marginalised.”
CWM General Secretary Rev. Dr Jooseop Keum expressed his deep sorrow, stating: “In these difficult times of war, climate crisis, and dysfunctional democracies, the absence of the Holy Father brings great sorrow. His commitment to peace, justice, and the poor leaves a profound legacy that defines the mission of the church.”
The Vatican has announced that a memorial ceremony will be held on 26 April.