The Vatican has announced with deep sorrow the passing of Pope Francis, the 266th Pope of the Catholic Church, who died this morning, Easter Monday, at the age of 88. He breathed his last at 7:35 AM at his residence in Casa Santa Marta, where he had been recovering from a prolonged illness.

Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, officially confirmed the news at 9:45 AM, declaring:
“Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. … With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite merciful love of the One and Triune God.”

Pope had been admitted to the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital on February 14 following several days of respiratory discomfort. On February 18, doctors diagnosed him with bilateral pneumonia. After 38 days of hospitalization, he returned to Casa Santa Marta to continue his recovery. However, his condition gradually deteriorated.

Pope Francis had a long history of respiratory issues, dating back to 1957 when he underwent surgery in Argentina to remove part of his right lung. In his later years, he frequently suffered from respiratory illnesses and had to cancel multiple events, including a scheduled visit to the United Arab Emirates in 2023.

True to his humble spirit, the late Pope had earlier approved a revised edition of the "Ordo Exsequiarum Romani Pontificis" in April 2024, simplifying papal funeral rites. The updated liturgy will guide his upcoming funeral, details of which are yet to be announced.

According to Archbishop Diego Ravelli, Master of Apostolic Ceremonies, the revised rites emphasize Pope's identity as “a pastor and disciple of Christ” rather than “a powerful person of this world.”

As the world mourns the loss of a beloved spiritual leader, Pope Francis is remembered for his tireless dedication to the poor, his courageous witness to the Gospel, and his compassionate leadership of the universal Church.