The Vatican has announced with deep sadness the passing of Pope Francis, the 266th Pope of the Roman Catholic Church. The Holy Father died this morning at 7:35 AM local time in Vatican City, at the age of 88. Cardinal Kevin Farrell delivered the somber news in a statement aired on the Vatican’s TV channel.
“Dear brothers and sisters, it is with profound sadness I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis,” Cardinal Farrell said. “At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father.”
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, made history in 2013 when he became the first-ever Pope from Latin America, as well as the first non-European Pope in over a millennium. His election marked a significant shift in the Roman Catholic Church, introducing a Pope who emphasized humility, mercy, and a reformist agenda.
Pope Francis’s papacy shaped by his focus on social justice, poverty alleviation, and environmental sustainability. His calls for reform within the Vatican, as well as his efforts to address clergy sexual abuse and corruption, brought both praise and criticism. Despite facing resistance from traditionalists, Pope Francis remained steadfast in his mission to modernize the Church while maintaining its spiritual foundation.
Health Struggles and Final Days
Pope Francis had been battling health issues in recent months, including a serious bout of double pneumonia. He had been receiving treatment but remained in the public eye until his final days. His health had become a concern for many, and in recent weeks, rumors about his condition had intensified.
The Vatican confirmed that Pope Francis passed away peacefully early this morning. The Vatican has also stated that funeral arrangements will announced soon, with the Vatican and faithful Catholics around the world expected to honor the Pope’s legacy.
A Legacy of Compassion and Reform
Throughout his papacy, Pope Francis worked tirelessly to bridge divides within the Church and between religions. His emphasis on compassion, humility, and outreach to marginalized communities resonated worldwide, making him one of the most beloved Popes in modern history. His visits to war-torn countries, his support for refugees, and his calls for climate action through the Laudato si’ encyclical made him a global figure for peace and justice.
Pope Francis’s death marks the end of an era, one that saw dramatic changes in the Catholic Church and significant shifts in global religious discourse.
As the Vatican mourns the passing of Pope Francis, the faithful around the world encouraged to pray for the Pope’s soul and for the future of the Church, as the process for electing a new Pope will soon begin.
