BOGOTA, Colombia

As the first pope born in Latin America, Francis, who died in Rome at the age of 88, prioritized the region throughout his pontificate, recognizing it as home to nearly 40% of the world’s Catholic population, the largest concentration globally.

During his 12-year tenure, he visited 10 countries in Latin America and the Caribbean, more than any recent pope, and often used these trips to reconnect the Church with the people and spotlight issues like poverty and inequality.

Pope Francis distinguished himself by actively engaging the Vatican in regional affairs.

His efforts redefined the papacy’s role in Latin America, focusing attention on the Global South and addressing long-standing challenges including poverty, inequality, environmental degradation, and corruption.

During his inaugural international trip to Brazil in 2013, the pope established his distinctive style by opting for an open vehicle, rather than an armored popemobile, to facilitate direct interaction with the people.

He signaled his aspiration for a Church more deeply involved in social concerns, closer to marginalized communities, and willing to address political issues.

From his initial visit to a favela in Rio de Janeiro, Francis conveyed a clear message: the Church should not remain detached from society.

“I want the Church to go out into the streets,” he said. “If it doesn’t, it becomes a non-governmental organization—and the Church must not be an NGO.”

Pope Francis also played a pivotal role in fostering dialogue between Cuba and the US. He facilitated a significant diplomatic thaw between the two nations in 2014, assisting in brokering the secret talks that led to the restoration of relations, as acknowledged by former presidents Barack Obama and Raul Castro.

He also supported the Colombian peace process with FARC rebels, a contribution that contributed to then-President Juan Manuel Santos receiving the Nobel Peace Prize.

He also visited Ecuador, Bolivia, Paraguay, Mexico, Colombia, Chile, Peru and Panama. Despite his profound connection to the region, he never made an official return to Argentina, a decision that caused disappointment among many in his native country.

Pope Francis's legacy in Latin America extended beyond his physical presence. When he had barely completed a year as the highest representative of the Catholic Church, in June 2015, he published the encyclical "Laudato si'," in which he made his environmental activism evident with messages that he amplified throughout his entire mandate.

He called for global action on climate change and criticized overconsumption by affluent nations, resonating strongly in a region particularly vulnerable to environmental exploitation.

Pope Francis' emphasis on social justice, environmental stewardship, and diplomatic engagement has left a mark on the region.

Presidents and leaders across the region have expressed their deep sorrow over the pontiff's death, a figure deeply felt by the region as attuned to its needs and challenges.