Pope Francis, the first Latin American leader of the Catholic Church and a figure known for his reformist zeal, has died aged 88. The Vatican confirmed his death early Monday morning, announcing he passed away at 7:35am local time. Cardinal Kevin Farrell made the announcement on Vatican television, expressing “profound sadness” at the passing of the Holy Father.
The Argentine pontiff had spent 38 days in Rome’s Gemelli Hospital earlier this year being treated for double pneumonia. He was discharged on 23 March and made a surprise appearance in St Peter’s Square on Easter Sunday, where he greeted crowds from an open-top popemobile. His death comes just a day after that public outing, leaving many in shock.
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During Easter Sunday celebrations, Pope Francis listened as an aide delivered his message from the balcony of St Peter’s Basilica, in which he renewed calls for a ceasefire in Gaza. He also held a brief meeting with visiting U.S. Vice-President JD Vance. Pilgrims and tourists at the Vatican have been reacting with grief and disbelief.
Tributes have been pouring in from world leaders. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni called him “a great man, a great shepherd,” while European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen praised his humility and commitment to the less fortunate.
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