VATICAN CITY — Pope Francis, the first Jesuit and first Latin American pope, has died at the age of 88, the Vatican confirmed on Sunday morning.
He passed away peacefully in his residence at Casa Santa Marta, just a day after making what would be his final public appearance. On Easter Sunday, he was wheeled onto the balcony of St Peter’s Basilica, raised his hand in a gentle wave, and addressed thousands gathered below: “Dear brothers and sisters, happy Easter.”
His death ends a papacy marked by humility, reform, and the complex balancing act of steering a centuries-old institution through a rapidly changing world.
“His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and His Church,” said Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Prefect of the Dicastery for the Laity, Family and Life.
Pope Francis had been admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital in recent days with severe pneumonia that affected both lungs, according to Vatican sources. Despite the illness, he insisted on appearing for the traditional Easter blessing — the Urbi et Orbi — though it was read by an aide while he watched from his chair.
After the blessing, he was driven slowly through the crowd-packed square. At several points, the motorcade paused so babies could be lifted to him for a blessing — a ritual he never seemed to tire of, even in frailty.
World leaders have begun sending their condolences. French President Emmanuel Macron called him “a man of humility and compassion who touched millions.” Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof described the late pontiff as “a role model for Catholics and non-Catholics alike.”
Francis’ final message to the faithful now takes on added meaning. He had urged peace in conflict zones and called on global leaders to show courage in building “a world without hatred.”
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, he became Pope in 2013 after the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI. His papacy broke moulds — he eschewed papal luxury, took the bus instead of a limo, and made clear that his mission was to be close to “the people on the margins.”
Though his stance on certain Church doctrines remained traditional, he pushed for openness, saying in 2013, “Who am I to judge?” when asked about gay Catholics — a comment that marked a seismic shift in tone from the Vatican.
He will be remembered for his tireless advocacy on issues like climate change, inequality, and migration, and for bringing a more pastoral, less doctrinaire face to the Catholic Church.
The Vatican is expected to announce funeral plans and further details in the coming hours. Flags at the Holy See have been lowered to half-mast.
As crowds began to gather once more in St Peter’s Square on Sunday afternoon, many held candles, rosaries, or simply stood in silence. The bells of the Basilica tolled slowly above them — a solemn farewell to a pope who always tried to walk among his people.
