VATICAN CITY — The Vatican has officially announced the death of Pope Francis, the first Latin American leader of the Roman Catholic Church, at the age of 88. His passing marks the end of a transformative and often turbulent papacy that spanned over a decade.
📌 Pope Francis Death Confirmed by the Vatican
In a video statement broadcasted on the Vatican’s official TV channel, Cardinal Kevin Farrell shared the sad news:
“Dear brothers and sisters, it is with profound sadness I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. At 7:35 this morning the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father.”
Francis had recently battled a serious case of double pneumonia and had been discharged from the hospital on March 23, following a 38-day hospital stay. Despite his health challenges, the pope made a public appearance on Easter Sunday, entering St. Peter’s Square in the popemobile to greet thousands of cheering faithful and deliver his first public blessing since Christmas.
🕊️ A Pope of Firsts: Biography of Pope Francis
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina, he was elected pope on March 13, 2013, surprising many observers with his appointment. Known for his advocacy for the poor and his humble demeanor, Francis rejected the lavish papal apartments of the Apostolic Palace, choosing instead to live in a modest guesthouse, citing his “psychological health” and preference for a communal environment.
🔧 Reform and Resistance During the Papacy of Francis
Pope Francis inherited a Catholic Church mired in crisis — rocked by global child sex abuse scandals and internal power struggles. Tasked with reform, his leadership aimed to restore credibility and compassion to the Church. However, his progressive stances were met with backlash from traditionalists, while some progressives felt he didn’t go far enough in implementing change.
Despite the division, Francis remained a globally influential figure. He promoted interfaith dialogue, stood up for marginalized groups, especially migrants and refugees, and drew enormous crowds during international visits.
👥 Two Popes in the Vatican and a Lasting Legacy
Francis’ reign was also unique in modern times due to the coexistence of two popes. After Pope Benedict XVI resigned in 2013 — a rare event in Church history — he continued living in the Vatican until his death in December 2022.
By the end of his papacy, Pope Francis had appointed nearly 80% of the cardinal electors, strongly influencing the direction of the Church for years to come. His legacy may pave the way for a like-minded successor, although opposition from traditionalists remains strong.
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