The Vatican on Monday announced the death of Pope Francis at the age of 88.
His passing occurred at 7:35 a.m. at his residence in Casa Santa Marta, just a day after he appeared before Catholic faithful during Easter Sunday celebrations at Saint Peter’s Square.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, made the announcement, describing the late pope as “a true disciple who dedicated his life to God and the Church.”
Here are 15 key things to know about the late pontiff:
- Birth and Roots: Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, he was the first pope from Latin America.
- Family Background: He was the eldest of five children from a working-class family. His father, an Italian immigrant, worked as an accountant.
- Early Work Life: Before joining the priesthood, he worked as a nightclub bouncer and janitor, and later earned a diploma in chemistry.
- Health History: At age 21, he underwent surgery to remove part of a lung due to a serious respiratory infection.
- Call to Priesthood: His journey to the priesthood began after a life-changing confession, prompting him to join the Jesuit order in 1958.
- Jesuit Formation: He studied philosophy and theology and taught at Jesuit high schools while preparing for priesthood.
- Ordained in 1969: He became a priest on December 13, 1969, starting a ministry marked by humility and service.
- Leadership in Argentina: He became the Jesuit Provincial in Argentina in 1973 and later served as rector of a seminary.
- Bishop and Archbishop: Appointed Auxiliary Bishop of Buenos Aires in 1992 and became Archbishop in 1998, he led with a strong focus on social justice.
- Made Cardinal in 2001: Elevated by Pope John Paul II, he gained international respect for his humility and simplicity.
- Elected Pope in 2013: He became the 266th pope following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI and chose the name Francis in honour of Saint Francis of Assisi.
- Lifestyle of Simplicity: He rejected the traditional papal palace, lived in modest quarters, and used simple papal attire.
- Reform and Accountability: He led efforts to reform the Vatican bureaucracy and promote financial transparency.
- Outspoken on Global Issues: Known for his progressive views, he advocated for the poor, addressed climate change, and pushed for inclusivity in the Church.
- Final Days and Death: After struggling with respiratory complications, he passed away peacefully on April 21, 2025, leaving a legacy of compassion, humility, and reform.
Funeral arrangements are expected to follow the updated liturgical guidelines he approved in 2024.
