The world is mourning the passing of Pope Francis, the first Latin American pontiff and the 266th leader of the Roman Catholic Church. The Vatican confirmed that the Holy Father died at 7:35 AM on Monday, just a day after delivering the Easter Sunday blessing to thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square.
Despite facing recent health challenges—including an extended hospital stay—Pope Francis appeared to be in good spirits during his Easter address. He also briefly met with U.S. Vice President JD Vance, who paid tribute to him earlier today.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis was 88 years old. His election in 2013 was historic: he became the first pope from the Americas, the first Jesuit pope, and the first non-European to ascend to the papacy in over 1,200 years.
Vatican Announcement
At 9:45 AM, Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, delivered the official announcement from Casa Santa Marta, where the Pope had resided:
“Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow, I announce the death of our Holy Father, Francis. At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father. His life was wholly devoted to the service of the Lord and His Church. He taught us to embody the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage, and universal love, particularly toward the poorest and most marginalized. With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite, merciful love of the One and Triune God.”
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