Vatican City – The Vatican has officially announced the death of Pope Francis, who passed away this morning at 7:35 AM local time, at the age of 88. The news was confirmed through a video statement released by the Holy See.
Pope Francis, born in Argentina, was the first Latin American leader of the Roman Catholic Church. He had been facing various health issues in recent years, including a pneumonia diagnosis in February 2025.
Final Public Appearance with U.S. Vice President
Just one day before his passing, Pope Francis met with U.S. Vice President JD Vance during an official visit to the Vatican. This meeting is now considered his final public appearance.
Who Was Pope Francis?
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis was elected the 266th pope of the Roman Catholic Church on March 3, 2013, following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI.
He was widely recognized for his focus on social justice, climate change, and outreach to marginalized communities, as well as for modernizing aspects of Church governance. His historic papacy lasted for over 12 years.
