Serving as head of the Catholic Church since 2013, he was known for his deep compassion, humility, and progressive voice on global issues.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell delivered the official statement from the Vatican early Monday morning, saying:
“Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow, I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis.
“At 7.35 am this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father…
“He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage and universal love, especially in favour of the poorest and most marginalised.”
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina in 1936, was the first South American and Jesuit pope.
Known as the ‘People’s Pope,’ he championed the rights of the poor, refugees, and the marginalized.
In 2016, he famously washed the feet of asylum seekers from different religions, symbolizing humility and service.
He spoke out on major global issues like climate change and inequality, and took a notably inclusive tone toward the LGBTQ community, famously saying: “Who am I to judge?” about gay clergy.
