Vatican City — His Holiness Pope Francis, the first Latin American leader of the Roman Catholic Church, passed away on Monday morning at the age of 88. He died peacefully at 07:35 local time in his residence at the Casa Santa Marta in Vatican City, marking a solemn Easter Monday for millions of Catholics around the world.
A global figure known for his humility, compassion, and deep commitment to the poor, Pope Francis led the Church through a transformative era. Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, he became the 266th Pope of the Catholic Church in March 2013, following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI.
Tributes have poured in from across the globe.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his grief on X:
“Deeply pained by the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. In this hour of grief and remembrance, my heartfelt condolences to the global Catholic community. Pope Francis will always be remembered as a beacon of compassion, humility and spiritual courage by millions across the world.
From a young age, he devoted himself towards realising the ideals of Lord Christ. He diligently served the poor and downtrodden. For those who were suffering, he ignited a spirit of hope.
I fondly recall my meetings with him and was greatly inspired by his commitment to inclusive and all-round development. His affection for the people of India will always be cherished. May his soul find eternal peace in God’s embrace.”