Pope Francis Reshaped Global Catholicism Through Mercy, Social Justice, and Progressive Reforms During Historic Papacy
Pope Francis, the first Latin American pontiff, died at 88 after a transformative papacy marked by progressive reforms and emphasis on mercy. He championed inclusivity for marginalized groups, addressed climate change, and sought to reform Vatican bureaucracy. Despite controversies with conservative factions, he prioritized social justice, challenged economic inequality, and worked to address clergy sexual abuse scandals while promoting a more compassionate church approach.