Pope Francis passed away on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at 88 years old, at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta.
The Vatican announced the news at 9:45 AM local time, with Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Camerlengo, expressing the profound sorrow felt across the globe. “With deep sorrow, I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis,” Farrell stated. “His entire life was dedicated to serving the Lord and His Church, exemplifying the values of the Gospel, particularly for the marginalized.”
Pope Francis had a tumultuous health history, having been hospitalized for five weeks earlier in 2025 due to double pneumonia, a condition worsened by previous respiratory issues, including a significant surgery in 1957. His recent illness led to a hospitalization that included a diagnosis of bilateral pneumonia on February 18, 2025.
Despite his health struggles, the Pope remained active until his passing. Just a day before his death, he made a public appearance at St. Peter’s Basilica to celebrate Easter, brightening the spirits of the faithful gathered to witness the momentous occasion. His ability to engage with the public demonstrated unwavering resolve, even amid deteriorating health.
In the aftermath of his death, tributes flooded in from global leaders and institutions, highlighting his impact as a voice for the poor and a champion of social justice. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni hailed him as “a great man and a great pastor,” emphasizing his relentless call for compassion and change. Other leaders, including British King Charles and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, expressed deep sorrow, underlining the pope’s role in promoting unity, compassion, and understanding beyond religious boundaries.
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires in 1936, Argentina, became the 266th pope in March 2013 following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI. His election was historic: not only as the first Jesuit pope but also the first Latin American pontiff in history.
His leadership saw vital reforms aimed at modernizing the church, advocating for environmental protections, migrants, and the marginalized, while also taking a firm stance against clerical sexual abuse. His tenure was marked by efforts to address issues such as elitism in the clergy and the importance of inclusivity for LGBTQ+ members, showcasing his commitment to promoting equality and compassion within the Catholic Church.
As the church prepares for the election of his successor, discussions emerge about the future direction it will take. The debate revolves around how the next pope will continue or diverge from Francis’s progressive legacy that faced both eager allies and staunch opposition.
In line with his wishes, preparations are underway for a simplified funeral. The confirmation of death occurs in the chapel instead of the room where he passed away. Following this, the body is swiftly placed into the coffin. With respect to Archbishop Diego Ravelli, Master of Apostolic Ceremonies, the late Pope Francis had requested that the funeral rites be simplified and centered on expressing the faith of the Church in the Risen Body of Christ.
As the world mourns a pope who reshaped the Catholic Church and reached millions with his inclusive message, his influence will undoubtedly resonate in the hearts of many for years to come.
