The Catholic Church has been thrown into mourning following the death of Pope Francis at the age of 88.
The Vatican announced his passing early Monday morning, just hours after he made a surprise appearance during the Easter Sunday service at St. Peter’s Basilica.
According to the Vatican, the Pope—who had been battling health complications in recent weeks—died peacefully in the early hours of Easter Monday.
“Pope Francis passed away at 3:24 a.m. Vatican time after several days of declining health,” a Vatican spokesperson stated. “The Holy Father was surrounded by prayers and close aides at the time of his passing.”
The late Pontiff had been in and out of the hospital lately, sparking concerns over his health. Despite his condition, he appeared at the Easter celebration on Sunday, waving to worshippers and blessing the congregation—what is now confirmed to be his final public appearance.
“He showed remarkable strength by attending Easter Mass. It was clear that despite his frailty, his faith and devotion to his role never wavered,” a Vatican insider told reporters.
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina, became the 266th Pope of the Roman Catholic Church in March 2013 and was the first from the Americas, as well as the first Jesuit to hold the papal office. His papacy was marked by humility, focus on social justice, and strong stances on global peace, migration, and climate change.
Tributes have begun pouring in from across the world as religious leaders, world presidents, and millions of Catholics react to the passing of a transformative figure in modern Christianity.
Funeral arrangements and succession proceedings are expected to be announced by the Vatican in the coming hours.
