Pope Francis (1936-2025), a Latin American by birth and the first non-European supreme leader of the Roman Catholic Church, died at the age of 88 at the Vatican residence on April 21, 2025. The sad news was announced by Cardinal Kevin Farrell.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on December 17, 1936, Pope Francis was renowned for his compassionate pastoral approach, simplicity of life, and commitment to social justice. He was elected Pope on March 13, 2013, and introduced a new direction in the leadership of the Catholic Church by emphasizing the importance of embracing the poor, championing the environment, and encouraging interreligious dialogue.
During his pontificate, Pope Francis has shown great concern for global issues such as climate change and economic inequality. He undertook internal reforms in the Church by promoting transparency and the serious handling of sexual abuse cases. Despite being ill with double pneumonia, he carried out his duties with dedication, including his final appearance at Easter Sunday Mass.
Pope Francis’ visit to Indonesia in September 2024 was an important moment for the Vatican’s relations with the Islamic world, and the visit was welcomed by diverse communities. In a meeting with President Joko Widodo, he emphasized diversity as a social strength and celebration.
One of the key moments was when he visited the Istiqlal Mosque and issued the “Istiqlal Joint Declaration” for interfaith cooperation in the face of the global crisis. His message of love and ecological justice was delivered at the Main Stadium of Gelora Bung Karno in front of more than 80,000 people, and he called for Indonesia to be a “nation of hope.”
The Pope’s messages have significance in Indonesia’s socio-political context, especially in the midst of identity politics and social division. He called for love, respect for human dignity, and genuine dialogue. Development, he said, must pay attention to justice and protection for vulnerable communities.
The Pope’s visit left not only impressions, but also a deep ethical legacy. His messages reinforced the commitment to interfaith dialogue, social justice, and environmental protection, which Indonesia is currently facing many challenges with. He reminded us of the importance of human dignity and equality in good governance.
In tribute, church bells tolled throughout Rome, and many countries declared a period of mourning. His remains were laid to rest in St. Peter’s Basilica and will be buried in a grand procession attended by many world leaders.
Pope Francis is remembered as a compassionate spiritual leader. He united faith and action, made love the supreme law, and put the interests of the weak first. His moral legacy will live on in prayer and action.
Contributor: Yanuar Nugroho
