Pope Francis, the first Latin American pontiff and a key global figure of the 21st century known for his humility, compassion, and advocacy for the poor, died Monday at the age of 88 in the Vatican. The news was confirmed by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Camerlengo of the Holy See, who stated: “At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the Father’s house.”

His final public appearance was on Easter Sunday, when he gave the traditional "Urbi et Orbi" blessing from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica. Despite his deteriorating health and recent hospitalization for pneumonia, his presence was seen as an act of spiritual resilience.

Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires on December 17, 1936, Pope Francis broke several precedents when he was elected in March 2013. He was the first Jesuit pope, the first from the Southern Hemisphere, and the first non-European pope in over 1,200 years. His election followed the historic resignation of Benedict XVI and marked a new chapter for the Catholic Church.

Throughout his papacy, Francis became a symbol of hope for many. He called for a “Church that goes forth,” closer to the people and less focused on rigid doctrine. “I prefer a Church which is bruised, hurting and dirty because it has been out on the streets,” he famously wrote in Evangelii Gaudium.

Francis also made a lasting impact on global politics and social justice. His 2015 encyclical Laudato Si’ urged urgent action on climate change and highlighted the connection between environmental degradation and poverty. He was instrumental in building bridges between nations, religions, and communities, playing a key role in restoring diplomatic ties between Cuba and the United States.

In Latin America, he was especially revered—not just for his Argentine roots, but for his consistent advocacy for indigenous rights, migrants, and victims of trafficking. Even amid tensions with conservative sectors, his voice remained steady: "The future of humanity is not only in the hands of great leaders, but in the hands of the people."

As the Church enters the sede vacante period, preparations begin for the conclave that will elect the next pope. Thousands are expected to visit the Vatican in the coming days to pay their respects to a leader whose legacy will endure far beyond the walls of St. Peter’s.