Pope Francis,the first Latin American pope and a reformist leader of the Catholic Church, has died at 88,

Pope Francis, the first Latin American leader of the Roman Catholic Church, has died at the age of 88, the Vatican announced in a video statement on Monday, April 21, 2025. His passing marks the end of a 12-year papacy characterized by efforts to reform the Church amid internal divisions and global challenges.

Cardinal Kevin Farrell announced, “At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father.” Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, was elected pope on March 13, 2013, surprising many with his humble style and focus on the poor. He chose to live simply, rejecting the ornate papal apartments in favor of community living for his psychological well-being.

His tenure was marked by attempts to address the Church’s child sex abuse scandals and Vatican infighting. While he faced criticism from both conservatives and progressives, Francis became a global figure promoting peace, interfaith dialogue, and support for marginalized groups such as migrants.

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Francis was unique in modern times for sharing the Vatican with his predecessor Benedict XVI, who resigned in 2013 and died in 2022. Francis appointed nearly 80% of the cardinal electors who will choose his successor, potentially ensuring continuity of his progressive policies despite traditionalist opposition.

He had recently recovered from a serious bout of double pneumonia but continued to face health challenges during his papacy.

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