Pope Francis Dies At 88, Vatican Mourns

By Onoja Baba, Nigeria

Pope Francis, the 266th leader of the Roman Catholic Church, has died at the age of 88.

The Vatican confirmed that the Holy Father passed away peacefully on Easter Monday at 7:35 a.m. in his residence at Casa Santa Marta.

The somber announcement was made by the Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, Cardinal Kevin Farrell, who declared.

“Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow, I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father,” the Camerlengo announced.

The Pope’s passing comes just a day after he greeted thousands of worshippers during Easter Mass at St. Peter’s Square.

The appearance, despite his frailty, captured the enduring dedication he held toward the Church until his final moments.

Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina, Pope Francis became the first pontiff from Latin America and the first Jesuit Pope when he was elected to the papacy in March 2013.

Known for his humility, progressive views, and commitment to the poor and marginalized, Pope Francis transformed the image of the Catholic Church and sought to bring it closer to modern society.

Health concerns had loomed over the Pope for several years. After a serious bout of bronchitis, he was hospitalized for 38 days earlier this year at the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital.

He returned to his residence in late March to continue his recovery. Medical reports later revealed he was suffering from bilateral pneumonia, and despite continued care, his condition declined rapidly in recent days.

Pope Francis’ health challenges dated back decades. In 1957, he had a portion of his lung removed due to a severe infection.

In his later years, recurring respiratory ailments limited his ability to travel and carry out public engagements.

In a gesture of foresight and humility, Pope Francis approved a revised version of the Ordo Exsequiarum Romani Pontificis, the official guide for papal funeral rites, less than a year before his death.

The document reflects his desire for a simplified funeral, emphasizing his role as a servant and disciple rather than a figure of worldly power.

Archbishop Diego Ravelli, the Master of Apostolic Ceremonies, stated “The renewed rite seeks to emphasize even more that the funeral of the Roman Pontiff is that of a pastor and disciple of Christ, not of a powerful person of this world.”

Funeral arrangements have yet to be officially announced, but according to the updated rites, Pope Francis’ body will be moved to a chapel for the formal declaration of death before being placed in a coffin.

World leaders, religious figures, and millions of Catholics across the globe are expected to mourn a man whose papacy was marked by compassion, reform,and a relentless call for justice.