Daijiworld Media Network - Vatican City

Vatican City, Apr 21: Pope Francis, the first pontiff from Latin America and a transformative figure in the modern Roman Catholic Church, passed away on Monday, April 21 at the age of 88, the Vatican has announced.

A statement released by Cardinal Kevin Farrell via the Vatican's official Telegram channel confirmed the news, saying, "This morning at 7:35 am (0535 GMT), the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father."

The Argentine-born Pope had led the Catholic Church for over 12 years, during which he became known for his progressive views on climate change, poverty, interfaith dialogue, and inclusivity within the Church. His papacy was also marked by frequent health challenges in his later years.

Just a day earlier, during his Easter Sunday appearance, Pope Francis made a passionate call for religious freedom, tolerance, and peace. Addressing a crowd of more than 35,000 from the balcony of St Peter's Basilica, he offered his Easter greetings before delegating the reading of the traditional Urbi et Orbi ("To the City and the World") blessing to an aide.

In the message, he stressed the importance of freedom of religion, thought, and expression, calling them essential for global peace. He also raised concerns over rising anti-Semitism and expressed sorrow over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, describing it as "dramatic and deplorable."

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in 1936, made history in 2013 when he became the first Jesuit pope and the first non-European to hold the papacy in over 1,200 years. His leadership saw a renewed focus on humility, social justice, and outreach to the marginalised.

Further details on the funeral arrangements and tributes from world leaders and religious communities are expected to follow.