Pope Francis dies at 88

Pope Francis, the first pontiff from Latin America and a global symbol of humility and social justice, passed away Monday at the age of 88. The Vatican confirmed he died at 7:35 a.m. following a prolonged battle with respiratory illness that had developed into double pneumonia. The pontiff had been hospitalized for over five weeks at Rome’s Gemelli hospital, marking the longest stay of his 12-year papacy.

Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Francis rose to global prominence not just for his position as leader of the Catholic Church, but also for his commitment to the poor, marginalized, and to issues like climate change and economic inequality. His tenure, however, was not without its critics—especially from within the Church itself.

Mixed Reactions from Across the Globe

Reactions to Pope Francis’s death have poured in from world leaders and organizations, painting a portrait of a deeply influential yet polarizing figure.

• Women’s Ordination Conference expressed disappointment over Francis’s steadfast refusal to consider women for priesthood roles, calling his stance a contradiction to his otherwise reform-oriented and pastoral leadership. They described him as a deeply complex and at times heartbreaking figure for many Catholic women.
• India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed Francis as a lifelong servant of the downtrodden and an inspiring moral force, praising his humility and commitment to inclusive development.
• Ireland’s Foreign Minister Simon Harris honored the pope as a global advocate for peace and dignity, highlighting his devotion to justice, interfaith dialogue, and environmental protection.
• Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni mourned him as a close mentor and great spiritual leader, reflecting on the personal guidance she had received from him during challenging times.
• French President Emmanuel Macron remembered Francis as a force of unity and hope, particularly for the poor and for humanity’s relationship with nature.
• Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof emphasized Francis’s grassroots connection with people, calling him a role model for Catholics and non-Catholics alike.
• Israeli President Isaac Herzog extended condolences to Christians worldwide, recognizing Francis’s efforts to bridge gaps between religions and his prayers for peace in the Middle East.
• EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called him a global symbol of humility whose influence transcended religious boundaries and will continue to guide humanity toward justice and compassion.

Final Public Appearance and Death

Francis made his final public appearance on Easter Sunday, cheerfully blessing thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square and even surprising the crowd with a ride in the popemobile. That moment was a poignant reminder of his enduring energy and charisma, despite his declining health.

Cardinal Kevin Ferrell, in announcing his passing, described him as a true disciple who lived the Gospel with unwavering dedication to the marginalized. The Vatican now begins its mourning period as the world reflects on the profound impact of a pope who both challenged and uplifted the global Catholic Church.