Pope Francis waves from the main balcony of St. Peter’s basilica during the Urbi et Orbi message and blessing to the city and the world as part of Easter celebrations, at St Peter’s square in the Vatican on April 20, 2025. (Photo by AFP)
Vatican City – April 21, 2025
Pope Francis, the first Latin American leader of the Roman Catholic Church and a global symbol of humility and reform, has died at the age of 88, the Vatican confirmed on Monday.
The Holy Father passed away peacefully at 7:35 AM, following recent complications from double pneumonia. The news was announced in a somber video statement by Cardinal Kevin Farrell on Vatican TV.
“Dear brothers and sisters, it is with profound sadness I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis,” said Cardinal Farrell. “The Bishop of Rome has returned to the house of the Father.”
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina, Francis was elected on March 13, 2013, becoming the first Jesuit and the first Latin American pope in history. His papacy marked a turning point in the Church’s image, shifting focus toward social justice, simplicity, and compassion for the marginalized.
Unlike his predecessors, Pope Francis refused to occupy the lavish papal apartments, choosing instead to live in a modest guesthouse within the Vatican for what he called his “psychological health.”
He inherited a Church rocked by child sex abuse scandals and internal bureaucratic chaos. Despite facing fierce opposition from conservative factions and criticism from progressives, Francis pursued reforms with courage and consistency.
Throughout his tenure, he became a global moral voice, advocating for migrants, peace, climate action, and interfaith dialogue, drawing millions during international visits.
Francis also made history by coexisting with former Pope Benedict XVI, who resigned in 2013 and remained within the Vatican until his death in 2022.
As of February 2025, Francis had appointed nearly 80% of the cardinal electors, heavily influencing the future direction of the Church.
His death marks the end of a transformative era in Vatican history, and the world now awaits the election of a new pope who may carry forward his progressive legacy.
