Vatican City – Pope Francis, the 266th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church and the first from the Americas, died on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. He passed away peacefully at 7:35am local time in his residence at the Casa Santa Marta within Vatican City.

Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Vatican’s camerlengo, confirmed the news in a solemn statement: “At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of his Church.”

Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on December 17, 1936 in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis made history when he was elected to the papacy on March 13, 2013. He was the first Jesuit pope, the first non-European in more than 1,200 years, and the first ever from Latin America.

His 12-year tenure was marked by a strong push for reform within the Church, a focus on inclusivity, social justice, and care for the environment. Pope Francis became known globally for his humility, compassion, and efforts to reach out to those on the margins of society.

In recent months, the Holy Father had faced multiple health challenges. In February, he was hospitalised with bronchitis, which later developed into bilateral pneumonia. Despite intensive medical care, including ventilator support and blood transfusions, his condition continued to deteriorate.

His death marks the end of a pivotal era for the Roman Catholic Church. The Vatican is now expected to begin preparations for the papal conclave, during which a new pope will be elected to lead the Church’s 1.3 billion followers worldwide.

Further details regarding funeral arrangements and mourning protocols will be announced by the Vatican in due course.