By The Sampadak Express
Pope Francis, the first Latin American pontiff and a transformative figure in the Roman Catholic Church, has died at the age of 88, the Vatican confirmed on Monday.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell announced the pope’s passing in a video statement published via the Vatican’s official Telegram channel. “This morning at 7:35 am (0535 GMT), the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father,” he said.
Final Public Appearance Marked by Message of Freedom and Peace
Despite his declining health, Pope Francis made a poignant appeal for tolerance, freedom of expression, and peace during his final public appearance on Easter Sunday. Addressing a crowd of over 35,000 from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, he gave his Easter greetings before delegating the traditional “Urbi et Orbi” blessing to a cardinal.“
There can be no peace without freedom of religion, freedom of thought, freedom of expression, and respect for the views of others,” his speech read, also condemning rising anti-Semitism and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
A Papacy Defined by Compassion and Reform
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Francis was elected pope in 2013 following the historic resignation of Pope Benedict XVI. He quickly became known as the “pope of the slums” for his work with the poor and marginalized, both in Argentina and around the world.
Francis earned global admiration for championing the rights of migrants, welcoming LGBTQ Catholics, and urging the Church to be more inclusive. He reshaped the papal role with a tone of humility, famously choosing to live outside the Apostolic Palace and refusing many traditional papal luxuries.
Health Challenges and Final Days
Pope Francis had been in declining health for several years. On March 23, he was discharged from the hospital after a five-week stay to treat pneumonia. Due to his condition, he missed several key Holy Week events for the first time since his papacy began, including the Easter Vigil and Good Friday’s Stations of the Cross.
Despite medical advice to slow down, Francis maintained an intense work schedule, reportedly never taking a holiday during his 12-year tenure.
What Happens Next: The Path to a New Pope
Following his death, the College of Cardinals will convene to elect the next pope. As per Church tradition, the conclave is expected to begin within 15 to 20 days, allowing time for mourning and for all cardinals to gather in Rome.
The election will take place in the Sistine Chapel, where cardinals will cast ballots in secrecy until a new pope is chosen.
A Lasting Impact
Pope Francis leaves behind a complex but impactful legacy. He will be remembered as a reformer, a voice for the voiceless, and a spiritual leader who reshaped the papacy with humility, courage, and compassion.
