Pope Francis, the first Latin American and Jesuit pontiff, died on Monday at the age of 88. The Vatican announced that he passed away at 7:35 a.m. local time at his residence in Casa Santa Marta, Vatican City. Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Vatican camerlengo, stated, "His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of His Church."
Pope Francis, the first Latin American and Jesuit pontiff, died on Monday at the age of 88. The Vatican announced that he passed away at 7:35 a.m. local time at his residence in Casa Santa Marta, Vatican City. Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Vatican camerlengo, stated, “His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of His Church.”
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis was elected on March 13, 2013, following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI. He was known for his modest lifestyle, choosing to live in a communal residence rather than the traditional papal apartments. His papacy emphasized outreach to marginalized communities, environmental stewardship, and economic equity.
Francis was a vocal advocate for the poor, refugees, and the LGBTQ+ community. He famously remarked, “Who am I to judge?” when asked about gay priests, signaling a more inclusive approach within the Church. He also took significant steps to address climate change and criticized global economic systems that perpetuate inequality.
Pope Francis had a history of respiratory issues, having had part of one lung removed in his youth. In February 2025, he was hospitalized with bronchitis, which developed into double pneumonia. After a 38-day hospital stay, he returned to the Vatican but continued to struggle with his health.
Despite his illness, he remained active in his duties, delivering blessings and engaging with the faithful. His final public appearance was on Easter Sunday, where he greeted crowds in St. Peter’s Square.
Pope Francis leaves behind a legacy of compassion, inclusivity, and a commitment to reforming the Catholic Church. He appointed nearly 80% of the current College of Cardinals, which will convene to elect his successor.
His death marks the end of a significant chapter in the Church’s history, one that saw a shift towards addressing contemporary global issues while striving to maintain the core tenets of Catholicism.
