End of an Era: Pope Francis Dies at 88
VITICAN/Rome: Pope Francis, the 266th leader of the Roman Catholic Church, has died at the age of 88, the Vatican announced on Monday morning.
“Dearest brothers and sisters, it is with deep sorrow that I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis,” Cardinal Kevin Farrell said in an official statement released via the Vatican’s Telegram channel. “This morning at 7:35 am (0535 GMT), the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and His church.”
Pope Francis’s death came just a day after he made an emotional appearance at Saint Peter’s Square during the Easter Sunday celebrations. Despite still convalescing from a prolonged illness, he stood before thousands of worshippers, offering blessings and delivering his traditional “Urbi et Orbi” (“To the City and the World”) message, in which he called for freedom of thought and greater tolerance across the world.
Earlier in the year, Pope Francis had suffered a severe bout of pneumonia, a health crisis that brought him close to death on two separate occasions. He was hospitalized for 38 days and was only discharged on March 23, after an extended period of recovery and medical care.
His final public appearance on Easter Sunday was seen as a moment of hope, as the frail pontiff smiled and waved to the crowds, wishing them a “Happy Easter” and reaffirming the Church’s message of peace and compassion.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis became the first pope from the Americas and the first Jesuit to ascend to the papacy. Throughout his tenure, he was known for his focus on humility, social justice, and outreach to marginalized communities.
As news of his death spread, tributes from around the world began pouring in, reflecting the profound impact of his leadership on Catholics and non-Catholics alike. The Vatican said further details about funeral arrangements would be announced in due course.
