Pope Francis died Monday at the age of 88, ending a historic 12-year reign as leader of the Roman Catholic Church.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Vatican camerlengo, confirmed the pontiff’s death from Domus Santa Marta, where Francis had lived since becoming pope. Francis died at 7:35 a.m., less than a day after he appeared weak but smiling during Easter Sunday blessings in St. Peter’s Square.
Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, became the first Latin American pope in 2013. He spent his papacy pushing the Church toward social justice, environmental care, and dialogue with marginalized groups. His supporters praised his humility and outreach; critics accused him of moving too fast or too far.
The pontiff’s death followed a long recovery from double pneumonia. Doctors admitted him to Rome’s Gemelli hospital in February. He stayed for 38 days, the longest hospital stay of his papacy. He returned to the Vatican in late March.
The Vatican will soon begin the rituals tied to papal death. Officials will first hold a private farewell at the Santa Marta chapel, followed by public viewing in St. Peter’s Basilica, where thousands are expected to pay their respects. The funeral will occur within six days, likely in St. Peter’s Square, depending on weather.
Francis had approved new funeral rites, calling for a simplified service and the removal of certain traditions. His body will rest in a simple coffin, not the triple-layer cypress, lead and oak of his predecessors.
He also requested burial in the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome rather than beneath St. Peter’s Basilica, breaking from recent custom.
Nine days of mourning, or novendiali, will follow the funeral. Cardinals will then gather in conclave to elect the 267th pope. The process, steeped in secrecy and ritual, includes smoke signals—black for no decision, white for consensus.
Until a new pontiff is elected, Cardinal Farrell will oversee Church operations.
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