The Vatican has officially announced the passing of Pope Francis, the 266th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church, at the age of 88. Cardinal Kevin Farrell delivered the solemn news through a video statement released on the Vatican’s Telegram channel early Monday morning. The Holy Father died at 7:35 am (0535 GMT).

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina, was the first Latin American pope in the Church’s history and served as spiritual leader to over 1.3 billion Catholics worldwide. His 12-year papacy was marked by a focus on humility, social justice, interfaith dialogue, and care for the poor and the planet.

In recent months, Pope Francis faced several serious health challenges. He was hospitalized for five weeks due to a severe case of double pneumonia, which significantly weakened him. Despite his condition, he made a brief public appearance just a day before his death, greeting pilgrims during the Vatican’s Easter Sunday Mass at St. Peter’s Square.

His passing marks the end of a transformative era in the Vatican, as Pope Francis led with a spirit of reform and compassion. Known for his inclusive vision of the Church, he addressed issues ranging from climate change and migration to LGBTQ+ inclusion and economic inequality.

The Vatican has stated that more information regarding funeral arrangements and the period of mourning will be shared soon. World leaders, religious figures, and millions of faithful are expected to pay tribute to a pope whose leadership reshaped the image and priorities of the modern Catholic Church.