Vatican City, April 21 — Pope Francis died early Monday morning at the age of 88, Vatican officials have confirmed. Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, made the announcement in a solemn address.
“At 7:35 a.m. today, His Holiness Pope Francis peacefully departed from this world. Throughout his life, he remained devoted to the service of God and the Church,” Cardinal Farrell said.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in 1936, Francis made history in 2013 by becoming the first pope from Latin America and the first Jesuit to hold the papacy. He succeeded Pope Benedict XVI and served for over 12 years as the 266th leader of the Roman Catholic Church.
His papacy was marked by a deep focus on humility, compassion, and social justice. He was a vocal advocate for the environment, the poor, and refugees, and often called for greater inclusivity within the Church.
Despite recent health struggles, including a bout with pneumonia earlier this year, Pope Francis continued to fulfill his papal duties. He delivered what would be his final public blessing on Easter Sunday.
Following tradition, the College of Cardinals will soon convene in the Sistine Chapel to elect a new pope. There are currently 135 cardinals under the age of 80 eligible to participate in the upcoming conclave.
Pope Francis leaves behind a legacy of reform, hope, and a renewed emphasis on mercy and outreach in the Catholic Church.
