Pope Francis Dies at 88 After 12 Years Leading the Catholic Church

Pope Francis, the head of the Roman Catholic Church and one of the most influential religious figures of the 21st century, has died at the age of 88. The Vatican confirmed his death on Easter Monday, stating that he passed away peacefully at 7:35 a.m. local time at his residence in Casa Santa Marta.

Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Francis became the 266th pope in March 2013. He was the first Jesuit to be elected pope, the first from Latin America, and the first non-European pontiff in more than 1,200 years.

His papacy lasted just over 12 years and was marked by efforts to bring reform to the Church and focus attention on social justice, poverty, the environment, and dialogue with other faiths. He often emphasized mercy, humility, and inclusion, though some of his positions sparked debate both inside and outside the Church.

In recent years, Pope Francis had struggled with various health issues, including respiratory complications. Despite this, he made a brief final appearance on Easter Sunday, where he greeted thousands gathered in St Peter’s Square with a short blessing from his wheelchair.

The Vatican announced that Pope Francis had chosen a simpler burial plan, opting to be laid to rest in the Basilica of St Mary Major in Rome, rather than the traditional Vatican tombs. Funeral details will be released in the coming days.

Tributes have begun pouring in from world leaders and religious figures, many describing him as a spiritual leader who remained close to the people.