Pope Francis, aged 88, has passed away at his residence in Casa Santa Marta, Vatican City. He had been recovering from double pneumonia. The Vatican confirmed the news in a video statement on Monday morning.

“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,” said Vatican administrator, Cardinal Kevin Ferrell.

Just a day before his death, Pope Francis shared a heartfelt tweet. “Christ is risen! These words capture the entire meaning of our existence, for we were not made for death but for life.”

Final moments and global reaction

Pope Francis was the first leader of the Roman Catholic Church from Latin America. He was also one of the oldest popes in the Church's history. This year, he did not take part in the Good Friday procession for the third time in a row. However, he did meet privately with U.S. Vice President JD Vance on Sunday morning.

Even though doctors had told him to rest, Pope Francis surprised everyone by coming out in public on Easter Sunday. He greeted about 35,000 people in St Peter’s Square, smiling and blessing them from his popemobile.

After the news of his passing, world leaders paid tribute to him. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote on X, “I fondly recall my meetings with him and was greatly inspired by his commitment to inclusive and all-round development. His affection for the people of India will always be cherished. May his soul find eternal peace in God’s embrace.”

German chancellor-in-waiting Friedrich Merz said, “Francis will be remembered for his tireless commitment to the weakest members of society, to justice and reconciliation.”

Israeli President Isaac Herzog remembered him as a “man of deep faith, peace and compassion”.

European Union President Roberta Metsola called him ‘The People’s Pope’ and wrote, “Europe mourns the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis… May he rest in peace.”

 

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