First Latin American pope, Francis, passes away at 88

Pope Francis, the historic first Latin American leader of the Roman Catholic Church, has passed away at the age of 88, the Vatican announced on April 21 in a video statement.

His 12-year papacy was marked by health challenges and unwavering dedication.

“This morning at 7:35 am (0535 GMT) the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father,” Cardinal Kevin Farrell announced in a message.

Just a day prior, on Easter on April 20, the Pope made what would be his final public appeal—urging for global tolerance and freedom of thought during his address.

Speaking from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica before a crowd of more than 35,000, Francis greeted the faithful and then entrusted the delivery of his traditional Urbi et Orbi blessing to an aide.

“There can be no peace without freedom of religion, freedom of thought, freedom of expression, and respect for the views of others,” the speech declared, also denouncing “worrisome” anti-Semitism and the “dramatic and deplorable” situation in Gaza.

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina, was widely admired for his humility and compassion.

Elected in 2013 following Pope Benedict XVI’s resignation, Francis ushered in a new era for the papacy—one characterized by a softer tone, personal warmth, and a relentless focus on social justice.

Often referred to as “the pope of the slums,” he was deeply committed to the poor and the marginalized, a mission that defined both his time in Argentina and his global ministry.

He frequently visited underprivileged communities and spoke out on behalf of the forgotten, calling the Church to be a sanctuary for the voiceless.

He also broke ground by embracing groups long alienated by the Church, including migrants, LGBTQ Catholics, and those living on society’s margins.

As tradition dictates, the selection of a new pope now falls to the College of Cardinals—the highest-ranking clerics of the Church.

After a pope’s death, cardinals from around the world are summoned to Rome for the papal conclave.

Typically, the process begins 15 to 20 days after the passing to allow time for mourning and travel.

The conclave takes place in the storied Sistine Chapel within Vatican City.

Francis had been recently hospitalized for pneumonia and was discharged on March 23 after five weeks of treatment.

The illness had taken a toll: for the first time since assuming the papacy, he missed most of the Holy Week observances, including the Stations of the Cross at the Colosseum and the Easter Vigil, with responsibilities passed to fellow cardinals.

Notably, Francis was the first pope in over a century to reside outside the opulent Apostolic Palace, choosing instead a modest guesthouse near St. Peter’s Square.

Despite his age and ongoing medical concerns, he famously refused to slow down or take holidays, maintaining an intense schedule throughout his pontificate.