Pope Francis, the first pontiff from the Americas and a transformative figure in the modern Catholic Church, died Monday morning at the age of 88. The announcement was made by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, at 9:45 AM from the Casa Santa Marta in Vatican City.
Cardinal Farrell said Pope Francis passed at 7:35 AM and commended the late pontiff’s life of “fidelity, courage, and universal love,” particularly toward “the poorest and most marginalized.” Francis had appeared publicly a day earlier to deliver an Easter blessing from St. Peter’s Square.
Elected in 2013, the Argentinian-born Jesuit led the Church through a decade marked by internal reform and external challenge, from addressing clerical abuse to expanding its social mission. He drew global attention for his advocacy on issues including climate change, migration, and income inequality.
World leaders responded quickly with tributes. U.S. President Donald Trump kept it brief, saying, “Rest in Peace Pope Francis! May God Bless him and all who loved him!” “Pope Francis will be remembered as one of the most consequential leaders of our time,” said former U.S. President Joe Biden, who called him “unlike any who came before him.”
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney praised Francis’ “spiritual and ethical legacy,” while UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer described him as “a pope for the poor, the downtrodden, and the forgotten.” EU President Ursula von der Leyen said he “inspired millions, far beyond the Catholic Church.”
Canadian opposition leader Pierre Poilievre noted that Francis’ “humility, compassion, and steadfast faith had a profound impact on millions of Canadians.” U.S. Vice President JD Vance posted his condolences, saying his “heart goes out to the millions of Christians all over the world who loved him.”
Francis canceled a meeting with Vice President Vance on Saturday, assigning Cardinal Pietro Parolin to speak to the U.S. VP regarding compassion. A Vatican statement said the talks centered on global conflicts, humanitarian crises, and the plight of migrants, prisoners, and refugees.
The Vatican has not yet announced funeral arrangements. As traditions dictate, the College of Cardinals will now begin preparations for a papal conclave to elect a new pope.
