Pope Francis, the leader of the Roman Catholic Church, has passed away at the age of 88 after a prolonged illness, the Vatican confirmed on Monday. The announcement came following weeks of speculation regarding his health, with the pontiff having been publicly struggling with various medical issues in recent months.
A statement from the Vatican described his death as a “peaceful passing,” though details regarding the exact cause of death have not been disclosed. Pope Francis had spent several weeks undergoing treatment and had been visibly frail during public appearances in the lead-up to his passing.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis became the 266th pope of the Catholic Church in 2013, following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI. His tenure was marked by a focus on social justice, poverty alleviation, and ecumenical dialogue. Francis also made headlines for his outspoken views on climate change, global migration, and the role of women in the church, positioning himself as a progressive voice within the Vatican.
Despite facing significant challenges throughout his papacy, including controversies surrounding church abuse scandals and tensions within the Catholic hierarchy, Pope Francis remained a beloved figure globally. His efforts to address issues of inequality and his advocacy for peace in conflict zones were central themes of his papacy.
Following his death, the Vatican has announced that a period of mourning will begin, with details regarding funeral arrangements to be shared in the coming days. Cardinals from around the world are expected to gather for a conclave to elect a new pope.
Tributes to Pope Francis have poured in from political and religious leaders, with many praising his commitment to compassion and human dignity. World leaders have expressed their sorrow, recognizing his contributions to both the church and the global community.
Pope Francis is succeeded by a long line of pontiffs that have shaped the direction of the Catholic Church for centuries. His death marks the end of an era for the Vatican and for millions of Catholics worldwide.
