VATICAN CITY — Pope Francis, the leader of the Catholic Church, died peacefully Monday at his residence in Vatican City. He was 88.
Cardinal Kevin Ferrell, the camerlengo of the Vatican, announced the death early Monday.
“At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of his Church,” Ferrell said.
He praised the late pontiff’s dedication to the Gospel and the marginalized.
“He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with faithfulness, courage, and universal love, especially for the poorest and most marginalized,” Ferrell said.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Francis became the first pope from the Americas in 2013, following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI. His papacy was marked by humility, social justice advocacy, and a commitment to interfaith dialogue and environmental stewardship.
Francis leaves a legacy of compassion and a Church transformed by his inclusive vision.
