Pope Francis dies at 88, ending a historic era in the Catholic Church, he passed away on Monday at 7:35 a.m., just one day after he greeted worshippers at Saint Peter’s Square on Easter Sunday. His death was confirmed in a statement by Cardinal Kevin Farrell on the Vatican’s Telegram channel. “Dearest brothers and sisters, it is with deep sorrow that I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis,” he said. “This morning at 7:35 am the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father.”
A Life Marked by Service
He died after decades of service to the Church. Despite his recent illness, he made a surprise appearance on Easter Sunday. He waved to the crowd and gave his famous Urbi et Orbi blessing. In his speech, he asked for “freedom of thought and tolerance.” Just a month earlier, he had spent 38 days in the hospital recovering from pneumonia. He had also faced several health challenges earlier this year. Still, he remained active and committed to his mission.
A Legacy Like No Other
Pope Francis dies at 88, but his legacy lives on. Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina, he became the first Pope from Latin America. He was also the first Jesuit Pope and the first non-European pontiff in more than 1,200 years. Appointed in 2013, he succeeded Benedict XVI, who shocked the world by stepping down voluntarily. That rare decision left the Vatican with two living Popes for nearly 10 years. Throughout his papacy, Francis introduced reforms, promoted peace, and stayed connected to the people.
What Comes Next?
Now that Pope Francis is dead, a new frenzy over who will become the next Pope has begun. The world is watching closely as the Vatican prepares to select his successor. While his papacy has ended, his vision of a tolerant and modern Church will continue to shape the Catholic world.
