Pope Francis dies at 88 after prolonged illness

Pope Francis died at age 88 after suffering a prolonged illness, the Vatican announced on Monday. He suffered a “prolonged asthma-like respiratory crisis" associated with thrombocytopenia, according to a previous Vatican statement.

Francis was born in Buenos Aires on Dec. 17, 1936, to Italian immigrant parents. He studied in Argentina and later in Germany before being ordained as a Jesuit priest in 1969.

Over a decade into his papacy, Pope Francis remained a figure of admiration and controversy. He sought to reform the Vatican’s bureaucracy, tackle corruption, and address some of the Church’s most pressing challenges.

While he had been hailed for his humility and commitment to social justice, his leadership had also drawn sharp resistance from conservatives within the Church and beyond.

The world mourns the passing of Pope Francis

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen: "Today, the world mourns the passing of Pope Francis. He inspired millions, far beyond the Catholic Church, with his humility and love so pure for the less fortunate. My thoughts are with all who feel this profound loss.  May they find solace in the idea that Pope Francis’ legacy will continue to guide us all toward a more just, peaceful and compassionate world."

French President Emmanuel Macron: "Throughout his pontificate Pope Francis had always sided with the most vulnerable and the most fragile, and that he did this with a lot of humility. "In this time of war and brutality, he had a sense for the other, for the most fragile."

Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson: “With the passing of Pope Francis, nearly one and a half billion Catholics around the world have lost an important leader — both moral and religious. He will be remembered for his humility, his fight against poverty and social injustice, and as a steadfast defender of the dignity of every human being."

"Many Swedes especially remember Pope Francis’ historic visit to Sweden in 2016, when he took part in the commemoration of the 500th anniversary of the Reformation.”

Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof: "The global Catholic community bids farewell to a leader who recognised the burning issues of our day and called attention to them. With his sober way of life, acts of service and compassion, Pope Francis was a role model for many – Catholics and non-Catholics alike. We remember him with great respect"

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez: "I mourn the passing of Pope Francis. His commitment to peace, social justice, and the most vulnerable leaves a profound legacy. Rest in peace."