Pope Francis's five memorable moments reflect his papacy's impact

As the world processes the news of Pope Francis's death on April 21, 2025, individuals reflect on the defining moments of his papacy. Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina, is remembered for his significant contributions and powerful addresses.

One of the notable moments was his 2013 apostolic exhortation, "Evangelii Gaudium," where he urged people to focus on reality over illusions. "It is dangerous to dwell in the realm of words alone, of images, and rhetoric... realities are greater than ideas," Pope Francis stated. During a meeting on September 12, 2020, he reiterated that "everything is interconnected" in his encyclical "Laudato Si'."

In another significant moment, Pope Francis famously said, "Who am I to judge?" during a 2013 in-flight press conference. He clarified this statement by adding, "If someone is gay and he searches for the Lord, and has goodwill, who am I to judge?"

Pope Francis also demonstrated his dedication to connecting with people directly. In July 2013, during World Youth Day in Rio de Janeiro, he embraced a 9-year-old boy named Nathan de Brito who expressed his desire to be a priest. Later that year in November, he showed compassion by embracing and blessing a man suffering from neurofibromatosis in St. Peter’s Square.

Another significant initiative during his papacy was the establishment of the World Day of the Poor in 2016. In an apostolic letter, "Misericordia et Misera," Francis called for acts of mercy to engage the entire Christian community. "There is no alibi to justify not engaging with the poor when Jesus has identified himself with each of them," said Pope Francis.

Finally, during the pandemic's initial wave on March 27, 2020, Pope Francis gave an extraordinary "urbi et orbi" blessing in an empty St. Peter's Square. His humble gesture, holding the monstrance to emphasize Jesus's presence, garnered broad praise and unified support globally.

Pope Francis leaves behind a legacy characterized by compassion and a call for social and environmental responsibility.