The Vatican confirmed this morning the passing of Pope Francis at the age of 88. Cardinal Kevin Farrell announced that the pontiff died at 7:35 AM, stating, “The Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father.” This news follows a series of recent public appearances the Pope made after recovering from a prolonged hospital stay due to double pneumonia. Despite his frail health, he continued to engage with the faithful, a testament to his enduring commitment to the Church and its mission.
Just a day before his passing, Pope Francis appeared in St. Peter’s Square to offer his Easter blessing to a crowd of thousands. Leaning from the Vatican balcony at noon, he greeted the gathering with a heartfelt “Brothers and sisters, Happy Easter.” In a surprising and touching gesture, he then rode through the piazza in the popemobile, pausing to bless infants and wave to enthusiastic pilgrims. His presence drew jubilant cheers, with chants of “Viva il Papa!” echoing through the square as the pontiff, despite visible signs of fatigue, offered comfort and warmth to those in attendance.
Though he delegated the Easter Mass itself to Cardinal Angelo Comastri, Pope Francis made a significant appearance following the service. Standing on the central balcony of the basilica for over 20 minutes, he gave the traditional apostolic blessing in Latin. The spring air was warm, with temperatures rising to 21°C, and the square was bright with colorful floral arrangements donated by the Netherlands. The Pope remained outside for nearly an hour, sharing this important moment with the Catholic faithful one last time. He also briefly met with U.S. Vice President JD Vance earlier that morning, a Catholic convert who was in Rome with his family for Easter celebrations.
Born in Argentina, Pope Francis was the first pontiff from South America and the first non-European to lead the Catholic Church in over a millennium, since the time of Syrian-born Gregory III. His election in 2013, following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI, marked a historical turning point for the Church. Entering the papacy in his 70s, Francis brought a unique voice and global perspective to the role. Throughout his tenure, he championed compassion, humility, and outreach to the marginalized, urging the world to live the Gospel with sincerity and courage.
The Vatican’s statement closed with a moving tribute, praising Francis for exemplifying Christian discipleship through his life and leadership. “He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with faithfulness, courage, and universal love, especially for the poorest and most marginalised,” the statement read. “With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite, merciful love of God.” As the Church enters a time of mourning, the world reflects on the profound legacy of a Pope who lived and served with unwavering devotion until the very end.