BREAKING: Pope Francis Dies at 88 — A Shepherd of Mercy and Champion of the Marginalized
VATICAN CITY — Pope Francis, the 266th successor of St. Peter and a tireless advocate for the poor, the marginalized, and a wounded world, died this morning, April 21, at the age of 88. His passing, at 7:35 a.m. local time at his residence in Casa Santa Marta within Vatican City, was confirmed by the Holy See Press Office.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell, camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, officially announced the pope’s death in a video statement:
“At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of God and his Church. He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage, and universal love, especially toward the poorest and most marginalized.”
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis was elected to the papacy on March 13, 2013, following the historic resignation of Pope Benedict XVI. As the first pope from Latin America, the first Jesuit pope, and the first to take the name “Francis” — inspired by St. Francis of Assisi — he brought a fresh vision to the Catholic Church: a vision centered on humility, compassion, and a call for a “poor Church for the poor.”
Over the course of his more than twelve-year papacy, Pope Francis became known for his bold teachings and actions. He tirelessly championed issues such as care for the environment, as outlined in his landmark encyclical Laudato Si’, the plight of migrants and refugees, interreligious dialogue, and the Church’s mission to accompany those on the peripheries of society. His message was one of inclusion, tenderness, and mercy — an echo of Christ’s own love for the overlooked and downtrodden.
Pope Francis sought to reform the Church from within, working to address the clergy abuse crisis, promote financial transparency, and renew pastoral leadership. His efforts were not without controversy, but his deep personal faith and focus on the Gospel’s core message of love and forgiveness remained steadfast.
Throughout his papacy, Francis remained a pastor at heart. He was known for his simple lifestyle, his refusal of many papal trappings, and his spontaneous moments of connection with people — from prisoners and the homeless to world leaders and everyday pilgrims. His famous phrase, urging shepherds to “smell like the sheep,” embodied his desire for a Church close to its people, wounded and walking with them through the joys and sufferings of life.
Today, millions around the world mourn the loss of a pontiff who consistently reminded humanity that the measure of a society is how it treats its most vulnerable.
The Vatican has not yet released details regarding the funeral arrangements. Traditionally, the funeral rites for a pope are held in St. Peter’s Basilica and St. Peter’s Square, drawing faithful and dignitaries from across the globe. Preparations are also underway for the calling of a conclave, during which the College of Cardinals will gather in the Sistine Chapel to elect the next Bishop of Rome.
As bells toll across the Vatican and churches worldwide, tributes are pouring in from religious and political leaders, each honoring a man who, even in the face of great challenges, embodied a Church that is “field hospital after battle” — open, healing, and ever merciful.
In his own words, spoken not long ago, Pope Francis reminded us:
“Let us never forget that true power lies in service. We are called to serve others, not to be served.”
Today, the world gives thanks for his life of service.
