Pope Francis, who led the Catholic Church for over a decade, passed away on the morning of Monday, April 21, the Vatican announced. He was 88-years-old.
In a statement released by the Vatican, Cardinal Kevin Farrell confirmed the death saying, “With profound sorrow, I announce that our Holy Father, Francis, has returned to the house of the Father. His life was wholly dedicated to serving the Lord and His Church. He showed us how to live the Gospel with courage, faithfulness, and a deep love for the poor and the marginalised.”
Born as Jorge Mario Bergoglio, Pope Francis was elected as the Bishop of Rome in 2013 after Pope Benedict XVI.
In his later years, Pope Francis battled multiple health issues, including surgeries and recurring respiratory infections. He was admitted to the hospital in February 2025 with bronchitis, which developed into pneumonia and ultimately led to his death.
Pope Francis, the first Jesuit ever elected to the papacy, began his tenure on March 13, 2013, and served as pontiff for 12 years.
Honouring his wish, the Vatican announced that Pope Francis will be buried at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome, a place he held dear due to its revered icon of the Salus Populi Romani.
As the Church mourns his passing, preparations are underway for a conclave to choose his successor.