Pope Francis, the first Latin American leader of the Roman Catholic Church, passed away today at 7:35 AM, the Vatican officially confirmed.
In a solemn announcement, Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Vatican camerlengo, stated:
“Dear brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow, I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis.”
Pope Francis, who was 88 years old, had recently survived a severe period of double pneumonia that greatly impacted his health. Despite his medical struggles, the pontiff remained committed to his pastoral duties until the end.
His passing marks the end of a transformative papacy, characterized by his humility, commitment to social justice, and global outreach. Pope Francis became a prominent figure for his advocacy of the marginalized and for bringing attention to critical global issues such as climate change and refugee rights.
Pope Francis: A Legacy of Compassion and Reform
Pope Francis was widely known for his reformist approach within the Catholic Church, promoting dialogue and inclusivity across diverse communities. His leadership style and advocacy for peace and justice earned him deep respect and admiration globally.
Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, as Jorge Mario Bergoglio, he was elected as pope in 2013, becoming the first pope from Latin America and the first Jesuit pope. Throughout his papacy, he focused on championing the poor and encouraging a more inclusive and compassionate vision for the church.
Health Challenges and Last Days
In recent years, Pope Francis faced increasing health challenges. He was treated for severe respiratory issues, including pneumonia, which led to a prolonged hospitalization earlier this year. Despite these health struggles, his commitment to his role and the church never wavered, as he continued to make public appearances and lead the faithful.
The Vatican has confirmed that further details will be shared in due course, and the process for selecting a successor will begin shortly.
Global Reactions to Pope Francis’ Death
World leaders, Catholic leaders, and people around the globe have expressed their condolences and paid tribute to the pope’s transformative influence. He leaves behind a legacy of compassion and social advocacy, with a focus on peace, equality, and climate change.
