The Life And Times Of Pope Francis: From Buenos Aires To Rome, A Look At His Tenure

Last Updated:April 21, 2025, 14:01 IST

Pope Francis Passes Away At 88: Pope Francis' papacy included many firsts. He was the first Pope from the Americas or the southern hemisphere. 

Pope Francis

Pope Francis has died aged 88, the Vatican said. He died at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta, the Vatican informed. Cardinal Farrell said, “His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and His Church."

The Pope’s death comes fewer than 24 hours after he made an appearance at the Vatican’s St Peter’s Square for Easter Sunday. He was seen coming out in a wheelchair and waving from the balcony of St Peter’s Basilica to cheering crowds. His traditional Easter address and blessing was read by an aide.

Pope Francis’ Tenure

Pope Francis’ papacy included many firsts. He was the first Pope from the Americas or the southern hemisphere. He was also the first Jesuit to be elected to the throne of St Peter – Jesuits were historically looked on with suspicion by Rome. As Cardinal Bergoglio of Argentina, he was already in his seventies when he became Pope in 2013. Here’s a look at the timeline of Pope Francis:

December 17, 1936: Jorge Mario Bergoglio is born in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

1958: Enters the Jesuit novitiate.

1969: Ordained a priest.

1973: Becomes provincial superior of the Jesuits in Argentina.

1992: Appointed auxiliary bishop of Buenos Aires.

1998: Becomes archbishop of Buenos Aires.

2001: Elevated to cardinal by Pope John Paul II.

March 13, 2013: Elected Pope, taking the name Francis.

2013: Visits Lampedusa, Italy, highlighting the plight of migrants.

2015: Releases the encyclical “Laudato Si’," focusing on environmental issues. Announced the Jubilee Year of Mercy to take place from December 8, 2015 until Nov. 20, 2016

2023: Approves blessings for same-sex couples.

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