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Pope Francis dies on Easter Monday aged 88

Pope Francis appears on the central lodge of St. Peter's Basilica to bestow the Urbi et Orbi (Latin for to the city and to the world) blessing at the end of the Easter mass presided over by Cardinal Angelo Comastri in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican Sunday, April 20, 2025 — Pope Francis appears on the central lodge of St. Peter's Basilica to bestow the Urbi et Orbi (Latin for to the city and to the world) blessing at the end of the Easter mass presided over by Cardinal Angelo Comastri in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican Sunday, April 20, 2025 (Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

Pope Francis has died at age 88 after a 12-year reign as head of the Catholic Church.
The Vatican announced his death, citing a long battle with a lung infection and kidney issues.
He was hospitalized for weeks and his audiences were cancelled, but he still attended mass despite his illness.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, he was the first Pope from the Americas, known for his less formal approach and advocacy for the marginalized.
A papal conclave will be held to elect his successor.

Pope Francis dies aged 88 after double pneumonia battle — In full