Mon Apr 21 10:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Pope Francis Dies at 88 After Leading Catholic Church for a Decade
**Vatican City** – Pope Francis, the leader of the Catholic Church, passed away this morning at the age of 88, the Vatican announced. The pontiff, who had recently been hospitalized for a respiratory infection, died at 7:35 AM local time. His death has prompted an outpouring of grief and tributes from world leaders and religious figures.
Pope Francis, known for his humble approach and commitment to social justice, led the Catholic Church since his election in March 2013. He presided over Easter Sunday mass just yesterday and met with US Vice President Kamala Harris. Large crowds have gathered in St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City to pay their respects.
The White House released a statement on X (formerly Twitter), expressing condolences and sharing photos of Pope Francis’ meetings with former President Donald Trump and his wife Melania, as well as with Vice President Harris. The Patriarch of Moscow also paid tribute, highlighting the Pope’s role in fostering relations between the Russian Orthodox Church and the Catholic Church. The Society of Jesus (Jesuits) in Britain expressed gratitude for his leadership.
Pope Francis’s legacy includes a commitment to simplicity and service to the poor. He famously eschewed the papal limousine in favor of more modest transportation, and consistently championed the needs of the marginalized. His death marks the end of a significant era for the Catholic Church and the world. Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced shortly.
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