Pope Francis, the global head of the Catholic Church and spiritual guide to over 1.3 billion followers, has passed away at the age of 88, as confirmed by the Vatican on Monday. He died at his residence in Vatican City after a prolonged illness, which had recently led to hospitalization.
According to an official statement, Pope Francis will be laid to rest at the Saint Mary Major Cemetery in Rome, fulfilling his personal wish. This burial site choice is historically significant, as it will be the first time in over 100 years that a pope is interred outside the Vatican.
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Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, he rose to prominence as the Archbishop of Buenos Aires in 1998. On March 13, 2013, he was elected to lead the Catholic Church following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI. His election was historic—he became the first pope from the Americas and the first Jesuit to ascend to the papacy.
Throughout his 12-year leadership, Pope Francis was widely recognized for championing compassion, advocating for environmental protection, and connecting with marginalized communities. He implemented major reforms within the Vatican and actively addressed pressing global challenges such as climate change, income disparity, and migration.
The Vatican is expected to provide additional information soon regarding funeral services and the process for electing a new pope.
Across the globe, church leaders and faithful are paying tribute to Pope Francis’ legacy as the Church enters a time of reflection and transition.
