Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88, was renowned for his humility and his strong rejection of lavish lifestyles. Throughout his papacy, he consistently demonstrated a commitment to living a life of simplicity and service to others, especially the poor.
Despite being entitled to a salary of approximately £300,000 annually, Pope Francis chose to live modestly. He resided at the Casa Santa Marta guesthouse rather than the traditional papal residence, a symbolic gesture of his humble approach to leadership.
At the time of his death, his personal wealth was reportedly minimal, with some reports stating he had less than £100 to his name. This stood in stark contrast to the wealth typically associated with the papacy. His choice to live with such little personal wealth reflected his deep commitment to the vows he took as a Jesuit: poverty, chastity, and obedience.
Pope Francis’s actions during his life made it clear that he was not interested in material wealth. Much of his income was donated to charity, further highlighting his dedication to helping those less fortunate. His focus was always on the well-being of others rather than on personal accumulation of wealth or possessions.
In addition to his rejection of materialism, Pope Francis was known for his advocacy for the poor and marginalized. His papacy was marked by a strong desire to bridge the gap between the wealthy and the underprivileged, working to create a more just and compassionate world.
As for his death, Pope Francis made it known that he desired a simple and humble funeral, in keeping with his lifelong values. This final wish was consistent with the way he had lived, always striving to exemplify the teachings of Christ through a life of humility, service, and love for others. His legacy continues to inspire people around the world to live with greater compassion and simplicity.
