Pope Francis dies at 88 after divine decade at the top
Pope Francis, the first Latin American and Jesuit pontiff in history, has passed away at the age of 88, the Vatican has confirmed. The beloved leader died at 7.35am, today, April 21, sending shockwaves through the Catholic world and triggering the official process to choose his successor.
“Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis,” said Cardinal Kevin Farrell. “His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and His Church… especially in favour of the poorest and most marginalised.”
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires on 17 December 1936, he worked as a nightclub bouncer and a janitor in his youth before entering the seminary.
He had part of one lung removed as a young man due to illness, but went on to become Archbishop of Buenos Aires and a cardinal before being elected pope in 2013 after the surprise resignation of Pope Benedict XVI.
Dubbed the “People’s Pope,” Francis became known for his humility, progressive views, and unorthodox approach. He championed causes like climate action, refugee rights, and poverty relief, and shocked many with his inclusive tone on social issues, famously saying: “If a person is gay and seeks God and has good will, who am I to judge them?”
His 11-year papacy wasn’t without its challenges. His health deteriorated rapidly in recent years, requiring colon and hernia surgery, extended hospital stays, and regular use of a wheelchair. Earlier this year, he battled pneumonia and kidney issues during a 38-day hospital stay, before making a brief public return in March to wave from a hospital balcony.
In April, however, he appeared to reaffirm the Vatican’s conservative stance on issues like abortion, euthanasia, and gender reassignment by signing a document titled Dignitas Infinita. Later that same month, reports emerged alleging he had used a homophobic slur in private, shaking his liberal image.
Despite controversy, Francis remained deeply popular with ordinary Catholics and global observers. His spontaneous gestures, from blessing stray dogs to calling random parishioners on the phone, endeared him to millions, Sky News reported.
The Vatican now enters a mourning period, with the conclave to select a new pope expected within the next few weeks. His passing comes just two years after the death of his predecessor, Benedict XVI.
As tributes pour in from world leaders and religious communities alike, many are remembering Francis not just as a pope but as a pastor.
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