Pope Francis has died at the age of 88, the Vatican confirmed Monday morning. The announcement was made by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the camerlengo responsible for overseeing Vatican operations during a papal vacancy. “At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of his Church,” Farrell said in a brief statement released by the Holy See. Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Francis became the 266th pope of the Roman Catholic Church in March 2013, following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI. He was the first pope from Latin America and the first member of the Jesuit order to be elected to the papacy.
During his time as pope, Francis focused on issues such as the environment, global inequality, Church governance, and interfaith dialogue. His papacy included several international visits, public addresses, and policy shifts within the Church. Some of his positions and statements generated significant discussion and differing reactions both within and outside the Church. Pope Francis experienced several health issues in recent years, including surgery and recurring mobility challenges. Despite these, he remained active in his role until his death. Following his passing, the College of Cardinals will prepare to gather for a conclave to elect his successor. Until a new pope is chosen, the day-to-day affairs of the Vatican will be managed by Cardinal Farrell in accordance with Church protocols. No details have yet been released about funeral arrangements or burial plans. The Vatican has stated that additional information will be shared in the coming hours. Pope Francis served as the head of the Catholic Church for over a decade. His death marks the end of a papacy that followed an unusual modern precedent of papal resignation and led the Church through a number of institutional and social changes.
