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Pope Francis, the Catholic Church’s first Latin American pope, has died at 88-years-old.

The cause of death, according to a report released by the Vatican, was a cerebral stroke that led to a coma and irreversible cardiocirculatory collapse. 

The announcement of Francis’ death was held by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, from the Casa Santa Marta on Monday, April 21.

“At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father,” Farrell said. “His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of His Church. He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage, and universal love, especially in favor of the poorest and most marginalized. With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite merciful love of the One and Triune God.”

Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, was elected pope in March 2013 following the surprising resignation of Pope Benedict XVI, who died in December 2022.

During his 13 years as pontiff, Francis was considered one of the foremost popes for lending his voice often to the men and women who were considered marginalized and vulnerable. He addressed various worldwide topics including the treatment of migrants, protection of the environment, alienation caused by technology and the sale of weapons of war.

Francis, who had suffered from chronic lung disease and had part of one lung removed, spent several weeks in the hospital in February 2025 for a respiratory crisis that developed to double pneumonia. After 38 days of hospitalization, Francis was discharged from the hospital where he would maintain a reduced work schedule up to his death. His final appearance to the public was when he blessed the thousands of people in St. Peter’s Square for Easter Sunday.

Following the announcement of his death, tributes from around the world poured in from members of the church and world leaders.

U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance, who had met with Francis Sunday, April 20, gave his condolences.

“My heart goes out to the millions of Christians all over the world who loved him,” Vance said in a statement. “I was happy to see him yesterday, though he was obviously very ill. But I’ll always remember him for the below homily he gave in the very early days of COVID. It was really quite beautiful. May God rest his soul.”

President Donald Trump issued a statement on the social media platform Truth Social to offer his condolences.

“Rest in Peace Pope Francis! May God Bless him and all who loved him!” Trump said on Truth Social.

Sen. Marsha Blackburn also issued a statement on Francis’ death on X, formerly known as Twitter.

“Today, we mourn the loss of Pope Francis and honor his years of service and leadership,” Blackburn said. “Praying for the Catholic Church during this transition and for Catholics around the world.”

Former President Joe Biden said Francis was unlike anyone who came before him in his tribute published on X.

“Pope Francis will be remembered as one of the most consequential leaders of our time and I am better for having known him,” Biden said. “As Pope, he was a loving pastor and challenging teacher who reached out to different faiths. He commanded us to fight for peace and protect our planet from a climate crisis. He advocated for the voiceless and powerless. He made all feel welcome and seen by the Church. He promoted equity and an end to poverty and suffering across the globe. And above all, he was a Pope for everyone. He was the People’s Pope – a light of faith, hope, and love.”

As for what’s next, the Vatican said Francis’ body be transferred to St. Peter’s Basilica this week to allow his worshippers to pay their respects. His successor will be chosen by the College of Cardinals during an upcoming conclave. Until then, Cardinal Kevin Farrell will serve as the Head of the Catholic Church, per the Vatican.