Pope Francis Passes Away at 88, Just a Day After Easter Appearance

VATICAN CITY —: Pope Francis, the spiritual leader of over 1.3 billion Catholics worldwide, passed away on Monday morning at the age of 88, according to an official statement released by the Vatican. His death comes just one day after he made a surprise and much-celebrated appearance at Saint Peter’s Square on Easter Sunday.

Cardinal Kevin Farrell confirmed the news in a solemn announcement via the Vatican’s official Telegram channel: “Dearest brothers and sisters, it is with deep sorrow that I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. This morning at 7:35 am (0535 GMT) the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father.”

The Pope, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, served as the 266th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church since his election in 2013. Renowned for his humility, progressive stance on social issues, and unwavering focus on compassion and inclusion, Pope Francis leaves behind a transformative legacy that redefined the modern papacy.

His passing follows months of deteriorating health, during which he suffered from repeated bouts of pneumonia. He was hospitalized for 38 days earlier this year and only recently discharged on March 23. Despite his fragile condition, he delighted thousands by appearing from the balcony of Saint Peter’s Basilica on Easter Sunday, delivering the traditional “Urbi et Orbi” blessing and calling for peace, tolerance, and freedom of thought.

Read more: Vatican Announces Pope Francis Placed on Assisted Ventilation

The Vatican has not yet released details of funeral arrangements or the forthcoming conclave to elect his successor. Pope Francis’s death marks the end of a pivotal era in the Catholic Church—one defined by dialogue, reform, and compassion for the marginalized.