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Pope Francis Dies at 88, Marking End of Historic Papacy

The Vatican confirms the pontiff's passing on Easter Monday, initiating a nine-day mourning period and preparations for the conclave to elect his successor.

Overview

  • Pope Francis passed away at 7:35 am on Easter Monday in his Vatican residence, Casa Santa Marta, following recent health challenges including double pneumonia.
  • Cardinal Kevin Farrell officially announced the death, praising Francis for his dedication to the Gospel and his service to the Catholic Church.
  • The Vatican has entered a nine-day mourning period, with a funeral Mass planned in St. Peter’s Square and burial at Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica, per Francis’s wishes.
  • Elected in 2013, Francis was the first Jesuit pope, the first from the Americas, and a reformist leader who emphasized social justice, environmental issues, and inclusivity.
  • A conclave will convene in the coming weeks to elect the next pope, continuing centuries-old Vatican protocols for papal succession.