Pope Francis’s Legacy Draws Crowds

Level: Beginner | Date: April 25, 2025

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Remembering a Global Leader

Pope Francis passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. He was known for his kindness, humility, and care for the poor and marginalized. People around the world are mourning his death and remembering Pope Francis’ legacy.

Crowds Gather to Pay Their Respects

Thousands of people have gathered at St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican to pay their respects. The basilica has remained open past midnight to accommodate the large crowds. Many mourners have waited in long lines to see the Pope lying in state in a simple wooden coffin.

A Pope of Firsts

Pope Francis was the first Latin American pope and served for 12 years. He was known for his compassion towards marginalized communities, including LGBTQ people, immigrants, and the poor. He often broke with tradition, such as choosing a simple burial at Rome’s Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore.

A Global Farewell

His funeral is scheduled for Saturday in St. Peter’s Square. Many world leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, are expected to attend. Security has been increased around the Vatican to manage the large number of visitors.

A Legacy of Inclusion

Pope Francis’s legacy includes efforts to modernize the Catholic Church and promote inclusion. He approved the blessing of same-sex unions and appointed the first woman to lead a Vatican department.

A Lasting Impression in Africa

In Africa, he is remembered as a compassionate and humble advocate for peace and justice. His 2015 visit to Bangui, Central African Republic, where he prayed in a mosque amid civil conflict, left a lasting impression.

A Transformative Era Ends

Pope Francis’s death marks the end of a transformative era for the Catholic Church. His commitment to inclusion and compassion has left a lasting impact on millions around the world.

This article was inspired by coverage from AP News and Politico, which reported on Pope Francis’s passing and the global response to his legacy.

Vocabulary

legacy (n) – something left behind after someone dies. Pope Francis’s legacy includes his efforts to modernize the Church.
mourn (v) – to feel or show sadness because someone has died. People around the world mourned the Pope’s death.
humility (n) – the quality of being humble. He was known for his humility and simple lifestyle.
marginalized (adj) – treated as less important or pushed to the edge of society. He cared deeply for marginalized communities.
basilica (n) – a large and important church. St. Peter’s Basilica is a famous basilica in the Vatican.
coffin (n) – a box in which a dead person is buried. The Pope lay in a simple wooden coffin.
tradition (n) – a long-established custom or belief. He often broke with tradition to promote inclusion.
funeral (n) – a ceremony for a dead person. His funeral will be held in St. Peter’s Square.
inclusion (n) – the act of including all people. He worked to promote inclusion in the Church.
compassion (n) – sympathy and concern for others. His compassion touched millions around the world.

5 Questions about the article

When did Pope Francis pass away?
Where are people gathering to pay their respects?
What is Pope Francis known for?
Who are some of the world leaders attending his funeral?
How is he remembered in Africa?

5 Questions about the topic

Why do you think Pope Francis was popular among many people?
What qualities do you admire in a leader?
How can leaders promote inclusion in their communities?
Why is it important to remember and honor influential figures?
What impact do you think Pope Francis had on the world?

Suggested Phrase

pay respects – to show honor or reverence to someone who has died. Thousands gathered to pay respects to Pope Francis.

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