Pope Francis, who died in 2022, led Catholic Church 2013-2022, advocated reform, interfaith dialogue

Pope Francis, who died on October 24, 2022, was born on December 17, 1936, and served as the spiritual leader of the Catholic Church from 2013 to 2022.

Francis is remembered for his efforts to reform the Catholic Church, including addressing issues like sex abuse by priests and welcoming lapsed believers back into the fold.

He made significant strides in interfaith relations and environmental advocacy, issuing an encyclical on climate change that influenced global discussions such as the Paris Agreement.

Despite these reforms, Francis maintained traditional stances on key teachings, such as opposition to artificial contraception and abortion.

Raised in Argentina with Italian roots, he had a brief career outside of religion before joining the Jesuit order at age 17.