In a video statement released on Monday, the Vatican confirmed the death of Pope Francis, the first Latin American leader of the Roman Catholic Church. Pope Francis died at the age of 88 after battling several illnesses during his 12-year papacy.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell announced, “This morning at 7:35 am (0535 GMT), the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father,” in a statement published on the Vatican’s official Telegram channel.
Just a day earlier, Pope Francis delivered a heartfelt Easter Sunday message, calling for tolerance and freedom of thought. Speaking from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, he greeted a crowd of around 35,000 people with Easter blessings. However, he assigned an associate to read his traditional Urbi et Orbi (“To the City and the World”) benediction.
“There can be no peace without freedom of religion, freedom of thought, freedom of expression, and respect for the views of others,” the Pope said. He also expressed deep concern over the “dramatic and deplorable” situation in Gaza and warned of rising anti-Semitism.
Francis had recently been discharged from the hospital on March 23 after a five-week battle with pneumonia. Due to his health, he missed most of the Holy Week ceremonies for the first time since his election in 2013, including the Easter Vigil and the Stations of the Cross, which were led by cardinals on his behalf.
Pope Francis made history not only as the first pontiff from the Americas but also as the first to live outside the Apostolic Palace in over a century. An Argentine by birth, he chose simpler accommodations and a more humble lifestyle, reflecting his down-to-earth values.
Despite his age and ongoing health issues, Francis remained dedicated to his role and was known for maintaining a busy schedule. It is even said that he never took a vacation throughout his papacy.
