From Philip Nwosu and John Ogunsemore
The Vatican has confirmed the passing of Pope Francis on Easter Monday, at his residence in Casa Santa Marta, within Vatican City.
The somber news was announced in a statement issued by Vatican officials.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell, camerlengo of the Catholic church, said the pope passed away at 7:35 am, aged 88.
The global Catholic community is expected to enter a period of mourning, with tributes already pouring in from religious and world leaders. On X, New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon described the late pontiff as a man of humility whose “legacy includes an unwavering commitment to the vulnerable, to social justice and to interfaith dialogue”.
Things to know about the late pontiff:
- Pope Francis, the 266th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church, died from complications from a recent bout of double pneumonia, marking the end of a transformative 12-year papacy.
- Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on December 17, 1936, Francis became the first pope from the Americas when elected on March 13, 2013, following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI on February 28, 2013.
- As the first Jesuit pope, Francis embodied the order’s emphasis on service and intellectual rigour, often focusing on social justice and dialogue with the modern world.
- Pope Francis led a humble lifestyle. Rejecting the opulent Apostolic Palace, he lived in the modest Casa Santa Marta guesthouse, drove simple cars, and carried his own bags, earning admiration for his simplicity.
- The late pontiff was an advocate for the poor. Francis prioritised the marginalised, famously washing the feet of prisoners, refugees, and the disabled, and urging the Church to be a “poor Church for the poor.”
- Pope Francis tackled Vatican bureaucracy, reforming financial institutions and addressing corruption, though his changes faced resistance from conservative factions.
- Pope Francis faced health challenges, including losing part of a lung at 21 due to pleurisy. He battled chronic respiratory issues and was hospitalised for 38 days for double pneumonia in early 2025, yet continued public engagements until his final days.
- Pope Francis was a bridge builder on migration and a vocal advocate for migrants. He criticised anti-immigration policies and notably clashed with the Trump administration over mass deportations, calling them a “crisis” that undermined human dignity.
- Pope Francis was a progressive yet divisive character whose openness to issues like same-sex blessings and women’s roles in the Church sparked debate, alienating traditionalists while inspiring progressives, shaping nearly 80% of the cardinal electors who will choose his successor.
- Despite frailty, the pope made a final public appearance in St. Peter’s Square on Easter Sunday, April 20, blessing thousands, signifying his commitment to connecting with the faithful until the end.