BREAKING: POPE FRANCIS PASSES AWAY AT 88, CARDINAL ANNOUNCES

Pope Francis, the head of the Catholic Church, has died at the age of 88. Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Vatican camerlengo, announced the passing, saying, “At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of his Church.” Farrell praised the late Pope, saying he “taught us to live the values of the Gospel with faithfulness, courage, and universal love, especially for the poorest and most marginalized.”

The Pope’s death comes just a day after he met with US Vice President JD Vance to exchange Easter greetings. During their meeting, Vance expressed gratitude for the Pope’s hospitality towards his family and noted the Pope’s improved health, saying, “I know you have not been feeling great but it’s good to see you in better health. Thank you for seeing me.” Pope Francis gifted Vance three big chocolate Easter eggs for his children, a Vatican tie, and rosaries.

The meeting between Vance and Pope Francis was brief, lasting only a few minutes at the Domus Santa Marta, where the Pope resides. Vance’s office stated that the Vice President “expressed his gratitude to Pope Francis for inviting him to meet on Easter Sunday and for the hospitality the Vatican has extended to his family.” Notably, Pope Francis had delegated the celebration of Easter Mass in St. Peter’s Square to another cardinal due to his health.

In his statement, Cardinal Farrell commended the soul of Pope Francis to God’s merciful love, saying, “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 God, One and Tribune.” Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, Pope Francis was known for his humility, commitment to social justice, and dedication to interfaith dialogue during his tenure as the head of the Catholic Church.