Vatican City: Pope Francis, the spiritual leader of Catholics worldwide, passed away at 7:35 AM on Monday, according to Italian time. The 88-year-old pontiff had been battling severe respiratory issues, double pneumonia, and kidney problems in recent months.
Following 38 days of treatment in the hospital, Pope Francis was discharged last month. The Vatican confirmed the news of his passing. He succeeded Pope Benedict XVI in 2013, becoming the first pope from South America.
Born in Argentina in 1938, Pope Francis was known as the “People’s Pope,” frequently addressing social issues and emphasizing humility. Notably, in 2016, he washed the feet of refugees from different faiths outside Rome, an act that reflected his commitment to service and compassion.
Just hours before his death, Pope Francis delivered a message to nearly 35,000 people gathered in St. Peter’s Square for Easter. His words, “Brothers and sisters, Happy Easter!” were followed by a message for peace in conflict zones such as Gaza, Ukraine, Congo, and Myanmar. The message was read by Archbishop Diego Ravelli.
On Easter, U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance, accompanied by his wife Usha, met with Pope Francis. During this meeting, the Pope presented them with three large chocolate Easter eggs. This marked the first time Pope Francis appeared in public after his health complications. He traveled through the crowd in a special vehicle, stopping to bless children and infants along the way.