Pope Francis, the groundbreaking first pope from Latin America, has died at the age of 88, the Vatican confirmed in an emotional video message on Monday. His death comes after a recent struggle with severe double pneumonia, though he had made a surprise public appearance just a day earlier.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell addressed the world in a solemn broadcast:
“It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of our Holy Father, Pope Francis. At 7:35 this morning, he departed this world and returned to the embrace of the Father.”
Only 24 hours earlier, the pontiff had greeted jubilant crowds from his popemobile during Easter celebrations in St. Peter’s Square, delivering his first public blessing since Christmas, following a 38-day hospital stay.
Tributes poured in from around the world. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described him as a “humble force for good,” while President Jose Ramos-Horta of East Timor praised his unwavering call for justice and unity.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Pope Francis was elected on March 13, 2013, as a surprise choice to lead the Church. His tenure was defined by a commitment to simplicity, social justice, and inclusivity. He famously chose to live in a modest guesthouse rather than the ornate papal palace, reflecting his emphasis on humility and service.
Francis took the helm at a time of deep crisis, aiming to heal divisions and rebuild trust after years of scandal. His leadership brought both admiration and dissent—progressives saw him as a reformer, while traditionalists questioned his departure from long-standing norms.
Francis advocated fiercely for refugees, spoke out on climate change, and extended hands across religious boundaries. His papacy often transcended the Church, resonating with people of all faiths and backgrounds.
His time in office was also historically unique—he served alongside his predecessor, Pope Benedict XVI, who retired in 2013 and lived within the Vatican until his own death in 2022.
By the end of his pontificate, Francis had appointed nearly 80% of the cardinals with voting rights in the next conclave, leaving a deep imprint on the Church’s future direction.
The world mourned with reverence. In Paris, the bells of Notre-Dame rang 88 times, a symbolic farewell followed by a solemn mass. Nations from every continent joined in honoring his legacy.
Pakistan’s President Asif Ali Zardari recognized the pope’s lifelong commitment to peace, inclusion, and dialogue, calling his passing a “loss for all humanity.” Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reflected on his call for an end to violence in Gaza, calling him a “champion of unity and compassion.”
From Berlin to Dublin, leaders echoed that sentiment. As the Catholic Church begins a new chapter, the influence of Pope Francis—marked by empathy, fearless reform, and a deep connection to the marginalized—will remain etched in history.