In accordance with Vatican tradition, the Camerlengo holds the duty of officially proclaiming the death of a Pontiff. Since 2019, this sacred responsibility has rested with Irish-born Cardinal Kevin Farrell. Today, he stepped forward to inform the faithful and the world of Pope Francis’s passing with the following words:

“Beloved brothers and sisters, it is with a heavy heart that I share the passing of our Holy Father, Pope Francis. At 7:35 this morning, Italian time, Pope Francis—Bishop of Rome—departed from this world to return to the house of the Eternal Father. His life was a profound offering in service to God and His Church.”

“He consistently urged us to embody the Gospel’s truths with unwavering commitment, compassion, and love that knows no bounds—especially for the forgotten and the poor.

As we remember the radiant legacy he leaves behind, let us commend his soul to the boundless mercy of our triune and ever-loving God."