Pope Francis Dies at 88: Vatican Announces Passing of Reformist Leader

Last Updated Apr - 21 - 2025, 04:45 PM | Source : Fela News

Pope Francis, the first Jesuit and Latin American pontiff, has died at 88. Known for championing social justice and Church reform, a papal conclave will soon el

Pope Francis has passed away at the age of 88, the Vatican announced on Monday through Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the camerlengo. “At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father,” said Farrell, praising the Pope’s lifelong service to the Church.

Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis was the first Jesuit and Latin American pope. Elected in 2013 after Pope Benedict XVI’s resignation, he became known for his humility, focus on social justice, and advocacy for the marginalized. His 12-year papacy also saw reforms in Vatican finances and responses to clerical abuse. Notably, he championed environmental action through his encyclical Laudato Si’.

Health concerns had shadowed his later years, with repeated hospitalizations, including for double pneumonia. Despite this, he remained committed to his papal duties.

With his passing, a conclave of 138 cardinals under age 80 will convene in the Sistine Chapel to elect a new pope. Traditional secret ballots will continue daily until one candidate secures a two-thirds majority, with white smoke signaling the Church’s new leader.