The Vatican confirmed Pope Francis’ death early Sunday morning: The day before, on April 20, the 88-year-old Pope made his final public appearance from St. Peter’s Basilica. Too ill to speak, an aide read his Easter message, emphasizing peace, freedom, and global solidarity.
He called for an end to conflicts in Gaza, Ukraine, and elsewhere, urging ceasefires, humanitarian aid, and respect for all human life. “A starving people dreams of peace,” he said.