Why Pope Francis changed his name and the true meaning behind it

It was announced by the Vatican earlier this morning that Pope Francis passed away aged 88 years old.

Vatican camerlengo Cardinal Kevin Farrell announced the sad news in an official statement which confirmed that, at 7.35am on 21 April, the Bishop of Rome 'returned to the home of the Father'.

Farrell's statement continued: "His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of his Church. He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with faithfulness, courage, and universal love, especially for 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 God, One and Tribune."

Following the confirmation of Pope Francis' death, tributes have poured in across the globe, including from King Charles III and US Vice President JD Vance.

The nine days of mourning are now set to commence, while the church will enact a series of rituals before a successor is eventually chosen.

The late Pope was elected at the age of 76 in 2013 to succeed Pope Benedict XVI, but his real name wasn't actually Francis - a tradition which many of his predecessors have followed over the years.

He was actually born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on 17 December 1936, and was the first Latin American to assume the role, being born in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

The Argentinian cardinal chose his papal name in honour of St Francis of Assisi, was also praised for his progressive attitude and humility.

Pope Francis said St Francis inspired him as 'the man of poverty, the man of peace, the man who loves and protects creation'.

The late Pope Francis was actually born Jorge Mario Bergoglio (Lisa Maree Williams / Stringer / Getty Images)

On Easter Sunday (20 April), Francis attended his last public appearance on the balcony of St Peter's Basilica, where he gave the attendees a heartfelt speech.

Reading on his behalf, an aide said: "There can be no peace without freedom of religion, freedom of thought, freedom of expression."

He continued to mention the people who have died in Gaza, with a particular focus on the Christians there, where he further noted that the conflict 'causes death and destruction' and creates a 'deplorable humanitarian situation'.

"What a great thirst for death, for killing we see in the many conflicts raging in different parts of the world," he said.

Pope Francis extended his sympathy for 'all the Israeli people and the Palestinian people' and also urged for a ceasefire, adding: "Call a ceasefire, release the hostages and come to the aid of a starving people that aspires to a future of peace."