Pope Francis dies at 88

Pope Francis has died at the age of 88 at his residence in Casa Santa Marta, the Vatican announced on Monday. His death marks the end of a papacy defined by humility, reform, and a strong focus on compassion and inclusion within the Catholic Church, BBC reported.

Cardinal Kevin Farrell described him as a man who dedicated his entire life to the service of God and the Church. World leaders have paid tribute to the late pontiff. French President Emmanuel Macron called him “a man of humility,” while Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte praised him as a role model for Catholics and non-Catholics alike, according to BBC.

Remarkably, Pope Francis made a final public appearance just a day before his death, addressing thousands in St. Peter’s Square with an Easter greeting. Elected in 2013, he was the first pope from the Americas and the first Jesuit to hold the office.