Gladness Gideon
The Vatican has announced the passing of Pope Francis, who died on Monday morning at the age of 88, just a day after delivering a spirited Easter message to tens of thousands gathered at Saint Peter’s Square.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Prefect of the Dicastery for the Laity, Family and Life, delivered the somber news in a statement released 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,” Farrell said.
“This morning at 7:35 am (0535 GMT), the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and His Church.”
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, was the first pontiff from the Americas and the first Jesuit pope. His papacy, which began in March 2013 following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI, was marked by his commitment to humility, social justice, interfaith dialogue, and reforms within the Catholic Church.
Despite recent health challenges, including a severe bout of pneumonia that saw him hospitalized for 38 days earlier this year, Pope Francis made a surprise and much-celebrated appearance at Easter Mass on Sunday. From the balcony of Saint Peter’s Basilica, he delivered his “Urbi et Orbi” (To the City and the World) blessing, advocating for peace, tolerance, and freedom of thought.
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Crowds at the Vatican were moved to tears as the frail pope smiled and waved, seemingly triumphant over illness. Vatican officials later confirmed that his condition worsened overnight, leading to his death early Monday morning.
His passing has prompted an outpouring of grief and reflection from around the world, with tributes already pouring in from global leaders, religious figures, and the faithful.
Preparations are underway for a state funeral, with more details expected to be released by the Holy See in the coming hours.
Pope Francis leaves behind a profound legacy of compassion, reform, and a deep commitment to the marginalized — one that will continue to influence the Catholic Church for generations to come.