Pope Francis has died, the Vatican says

The Vatican has announced the passing of Pope Francis at the age of 88. He died on Monday after a long illness.

He was the first Latin-America pontiff - a pioneering leader, known for his efforts to update the mission and focus on important social issues.

Cardinal Kevin Farrell shared the news of the Argentina-born Francis, a ground-breaking and progressive figure, in a heartfelt statement.

"Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow, I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis.

"At 7.35am this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father.

"His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and His Church.

"He taught us to live the values ​​of the Gospel with fidelity, courage and universal love, especially in favour of the poorest and most marginalised.

"With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite merciful love of the One and Triune God."

The Catholic Church, also known as the Roman Catholic Church, is the largest Christian church, with about 1.4 billion baptised Catholics worldwide as of 2024.

On Easter Sunday, he greeted crowds at a church service after meeting with US Vice President JD Vance the day before.

Francis became pope in 2013, and in recent years, he has had to miss some events due to his health.

He faced several hospitalisations, including a serious bout with bronchitis in February.

Shortly after being admitted to the hospital, he was diagnosed with pneumonia and had to receive blood transfusions due to a low platelet count, which affected his blood health.

By 22 February, the Vatican reported that his condition was critical because of a severe "respiratory crisis" and later mentioned that the pope was experiencing some kidney issues.

Thousands of people gathered in St Peter's Square to pray for his recovery, while others left flowers and notes at the hospital where he was treated.

Pope Francis makes a rare appearance during the Holy Week. Photo/VaticanNews

Pope Francis spent the remainder of the month in the hospital. On 6 March, he shared a message with the public for the first time, thanking everyone for their support: "I am with you from here."

He was discharged from the hospital on 23 March and made his first public appearance in five weeks, smiling and waving to those gathered outside.

On his way back to the Vatican, he visited his favourite basilica before beginning a period of rest to recover.

Doctors announced that while the pneumonia was successfully treated, the Pope still needed oxygen support and ongoing medical attention for some lingering infections.

The process to choose a new pope, called a conclave, usually takes place about 15 to 20 days after the death of a pontiff.