Pope Francis has died following a cerebral stroke that led to irreversible heart failure, according to the Vatican. The pontiff, aged 88, passed away at 7:35 a.m. after slipping into a coma
He had recently spent 38 days at Rome’s Gemelli hospital, where he was treated for bronchitis and double pneumonia. Discharged on March 23, Francis made a brief public appearance on Easter Sunday, blessing worshippers in St. Peter’s Square.
“At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father,” said Cardinal Kevin Ferrell. “His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of his Church.”
Despite health struggles, Francis met U.S. Vice President JD Vance hours before his death and greeted over 35,000 faithful.
In line with his wishes, the Pope will be buried in a simple underground tomb at St. Mary Major Basilica.