Pope Francis, the 266th head of the Roman Catholic Church, has died at the age of 88. The Vatican confirmed his passing in the early hours of Monday morning, around 2:35 AM Rome time. According to official reports, the cause of death was complications from a long-standing respiratory condition that worsened over the past few days.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis made history as the first pope from the Americas and the first Jesuit to assume the papacy. Since his election in 2013, he became known for his humility, strong voice on social justice, and efforts to reform the Church.
With his passing, the Catholic Church enters a period known as Sede Vacante (the seat being vacant). The College of Cardinals will now begin preparations for a conclave to elect a new pope. Until then, the Church will be led by the Camerlengo, a senior Vatican official who oversees day-to-day operations.
Funeral arrangements are expected to take place in the coming days at St. Peter’s Basilica, with world leaders and millions of Catholics expected to attend or tune in for the ceremony.
Pope Francis leaves behind a legacy of compassion, reform, and dialogue across religions and cultures.
