VATICAN CITY, VATICAN – Pope Francis, a transformative figure in the Catholic Church, has died at the age of 88. The Vatican announced that the pontiff passed away after suffering a stroke and subsequent heart failure. Thousands are gathering in Vatican City to pay their respects, with the pope set to lie in state at St. Peter’s Basilica later this week.
The news of Pope Francis’s passing has resonated globally, with tributes pouring in from various corners of the world. In New York City, police draped bunting in front of St. Patrick’s Cathedral, while flags in Washington, D.C., have been lowered to half-staff in his honor.
Earlier this year, Pope Francis had been hospitalized with pneumonia but made a remarkable recovery in time to celebrate Easter at the Vatican. However, his health took a turn for the worse, leading to the stroke that ultimately claimed his life.
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, was the first pope from Latin America. Known for his humility, he was a cardinal who shunned the opulence often associated with his position, opting for a modest lifestyle. He was celebrated for his progressive views, including his support for LGBTQ rights, famously stating that being gay is natural and that all are children of God.
His papacy breathed new life into the Catholic Church, traditionally known for its conservative doctrine. His approach to leadership was marked by a focus on inclusivity and compassion, which endeared him to many around the world.
The bell at St. Peter’s Square tolled 88 times, once for each year of Pope Francis’s life, as news of his passing spread. His final wishes were for a simple funeral, opting for a resting place away from the grandeur of the Vatican.
The Vatican will announce the date of the funeral mass, expected to draw cardinals and heads of state from around the globe. The world now enters a period of mourning for a leader who left an indelible mark on the church and beyond.