Anna Hartz
Pope Francis, First Latin American Pontiff, Has Died
Others are reading now
Pope Francis died Monday morning at 7:35 a.m., according to Cardinal Kevin Farrell, who serves as the camerlengo, the Vatican official responsible for the Church in times between popes.
His death marks the end of an era in the Catholic Church.
“He returned to the home of the Father,” Cardinal Farrell said during the official announcement. “His entire life was dedicated to serving the Lord and the Church.”
Francis became pope in 2013. He was the first Jesuit to take the position. He was also the first pope from South America.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, he brought a fresh tone to the Vatican.
His focus on poverty, human dignity, and environmental care earned him praise around the world.
He didn’t live in the grand papal apartments. Instead, he chose a smaller, simpler residence.
He rode in modest cars. He often spoke about the struggles of regular people and pushed the Church to focus more on compassion and less on strict rules.
In many ways, he was a pope of firsts. He opened discussions on difficult topics like divorce, LGBTQ+ inclusion, and abuse scandals.
He didn’t solve everything. But he asked hard questions and pushed for change.
Many loved him for his gentleness and for the way he spoke to everyone—not just Catholics.
Leaders from around the globe have begun to offer their condolences and share memories of his work.
Cardinal Farrell closed the announcement with a final blessing. “We commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite, merciful love of God.”
For many, his legacy will live on not in grand speeches or buildings, but in the small, loving gestures that touched millions.