The Vatican announces the death of Pope Francis at the age of 88.

The Vatican announced today, Monday, April 21, the death of Pope Francis, the Bishop of Rome and the head of the Catholic Church, at the age of 88, after a long journey in service of faith and the church.

The official statement from the Vatican read: "At 7:35 this morning, Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the Father's house. He dedicated his entire life to serving the Lord and his church."

Last Sunday, the Pope appeared on the balcony of St. Peter's Cathedral to give his traditional blessings to the city and the world on the occasion of Easter, using a wheelchair without oxygen tubes, amidst thousands of believers who gathered to celebrate one of the most important Christian holidays.

Pope Francis had been facing significant health challenges in recent months, as the Vatican had earlier announced his diagnosis with bilateral pneumonia, requiring hospitalization and intensive treatment, including blood transfusions due to low platelet levels.

On February 22, the Pope's condition became critical due to a severe respiratory crisis that necessitated high levels of oxygen, later worsening with initial signs of mild kidney failure, according to official data.

Reports of the Pope's deteriorating health raised concerns among believers, with thousands flocking to St. Peter's Square to pray for his recovery, while others headed to Gemelli Hospital in Rome, where he was receiving treatment, to leave flowers and supportive messages.

After a 38-day stay in the hospital, the Pope left on March 23, to greet the crowds from the hospital balcony, smiling and gesturing with his thumb as a sign of optimism, before returning to the Vatican to complete a two-month recovery period.

Pope Francis, born in Argentina, assumed the papacy in 2013, succeeding Pope Benedict XVI, who resigned. His papacy was characterized by advocacy for the poor, social justice issues, and efforts to promote interfaith dialogue.

The Vatican is now preparing for the funeral of the late Pope, as the world's attention turns to the Catholic Church, which has lost one of its prominent spiritual leaders in modern times.