Vatican City, Apr 21 (V7N)- Pope Francis, the first Latin American leader of the Roman Catholic Church, has passed away at the age of 88, the Vatican announced in a video statement on Monday morning.

The Holy Father died at 7:30 a.m. local time, a day after delivering his final public message—his “Happy Easter” greeting—to thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square.

Cardinal Kevin Farrell, head of the Vatican’s Dicastery for the Laity, Family and Life, confirmed the news on Vatican TV, saying,

“Dear brothers and sisters, it is with deep sadness that I have to announce the death of our Holy Father Francis.”

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina, made history in 2013 when he became the first non-European pope since 741, and the first Jesuit to hold the papacy. He brought with him a legacy of reform, humility, and advocacy for the marginalized, and was a vocal leader on issues ranging from climate change to social justice and interfaith harmony.

His recent battle with severe pneumonia had left many concerned about his health, although he had appeared in relatively good spirits during his Easter appearance.

Despite internal tensions within the Church, Pope Francis remained a widely beloved figure, admired for his modernizing efforts and pastoral focus on compassion over dogma.

His passing has plunged the global Christian community into mourning, with tributes pouring in from world leaders, religious figures, and the faithful across the globe. Flags at the Vatican have been lowered to half-mast, and preparations for the papal funeral rites are underway.

More updates on the funeral arrangements and the conclave to elect the next pope are expected from the Vatican in the coming days.

END/MSS/AJ