Pope Francis Dies at 88, Vatican Confirms After Easter Celebrations
Pope Francis, the first Latin American leader of the Roman Catholic Church, died on Monday at 88, the Vatican announced. His passing occurred a day after celebrating Easter.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Vatican camerlengo, confirmed the death in a video statement on 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,” Farrell said. The 88-year-old pontiff died at his Casa Santa Marta residence.
Pope Francis had battled severe health issues, including a 38-day hospitalization for pneumonia earlier in 2025. His condition was critical in February, with doctors considering halting treatment. He returned to the Vatican on March 23 but required ongoing medical care.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina, Pope Francis led the Catholic Church for 12 years. He was the first Jesuit and non-European pope since the 8th century. His papacy focused on humility, interfaith dialogue, and addressing global issues like climate change.
In 2024, he opened the Holy Year 2025 and published his fourth encyclical, “Dilexit Nos.” Despite health setbacks, he remained active, meeting US Vice President JD Vance on Easter Sunday. His reforms, including appointing a female governor for Vatican City, stirred debate.
World leaders and Catholics mourned the pontiff’s death. “His message of peace and compassion resonated globally,” said UN Secretary-General António Guterres. Pilgrims gathered in St. Peter’s Square, praying for the late pope.
Social media reflected widespread grief, with #PopeFrancis trending on X. “He was a voice for the marginalized,” tweeted a Vatican observer. The Vatican has begun a nine-day mourning period, known as Novendiale.
Born in Buenos Aires in 1936, Francis joined the Jesuits in 1958 after a severe illness. Ordained in 1969, he became Buenos Aires’ archbishop in 1998 and a cardinal in 2001. Elected pope in 2013, he chose the name Francis, inspired by St. Francis of Assisi.
His health challenges, including lung issues from youth, persisted throughout his papacy. In 2023, he hinted at a short tenure, joking about a future “John XXIV.” The Catholic Church serves 1.3 billion followers worldwide.
The Vatican will now prepare for a conclave to elect a new pope, expected within weeks. Cardinal electors, appointed by Francis, will shape the future of his progressive legacy. “The Church faces a pivotal moment,” said Vatican analyst Dr. Maria Rossi.
The funeral, likely in St. Peter’s Square, will follow traditional protocols. Francis requested burial at St. Mary Major Basilica, near his beloved Madonna icon. The global Catholic community awaits the next chapter.
