In a deeply symbolic moment that has stunned the Catholic world, Pope Francis has died just hours after the celebration of Easter Sunday, also known as the Day of Resurrection. The Vatican confirmed his passing early Monday morning, describing his final hours as peaceful and surrounded by prayer.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, the 88-year-old pontiff had served as the 266th pope of the Roman Catholic Church since March 13, 2013. He was the first pope from the Americas, the first Jesuit pope, and the first to take the name Francis, inspired by St. Francis of Assisi’s devotion to peace and the poor.
According to a brief statement issued by the Vatican Press Office, the Holy Father passed away in his residence at the Vatican’s Mater Ecclesiae Monastery shortly after midnight. “With deep sorrow, we announce that His Holiness Pope Francis has returned to the house of the Father,” the statement read. “His unwavering faith, tireless compassion, and humble leadership will forever be etched in the history of the Church.”
The timing of his death—coming mere hours after Christians around the world marked the resurrection of Jesus Christ—has not gone unnoticed by the faithful, many of whom have taken to social media to express their grief and to reflect on the profound symbolism.
Pope Francis had faced a series of health challenges in recent years, including lung infections, mobility issues, and intestinal surgery. Despite these setbacks, he remained active in his ministry, continuing to call for peace, environmental justice, and dialogue among faiths until his final days.
A period of mourning has been declared at the Vatican, and plans are underway for the papal funeral and the convocation of the College of Cardinals for the conclave that will elect his successor.
Global leaders and religious figures have begun sending condolences and tributes, hailing Pope Francis as a bridge-builder, a voice for the marginalized, and a man who changed the tone of the papacy with his emphasis on mercy, humility, and outreach.
As bells toll across cathedrals from Rome to Rio, the world bids farewell to a shepherd whose legacy of love and reform will continue to shape the Church for generations to come.
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