Pope Francis, the first Latin American leader of the Roman Catholic Church, has died at the age of 88, the Vatican confirmed in a solemn video statement. The pontiff passed away on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at his residence in Casa Santa Marta in Vatican City.
A Final Announcement from the Vatican
Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, officially announced the death at 9:45 AM Vatican time, stating, “With deep sorrow, I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. At 7:35 AM, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father.” He praised the Pope’s life of service and compassion for the poor and marginalized, commending his legacy to God’s mercy.
Health Struggles in His Final Years
The Pope had endured a series of health challenges in recent years. On February 14, 2025, he was hospitalized with bronchitis, which later developed into bilateral pneumonia. Despite medical intervention, his condition deteriorated. He spent 38 days at the Agostino Gemelli Hospital before returning to the Vatican in March to recover.
Francis had a history of respiratory issues, dating back to surgery in his 20s to remove part of a lung. He also battled influenza and lung inflammation in 2023, forcing him to cancel a visit to the UAE.
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A Papacy of Compassion and Reform
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina in 1936, Francis became pope in 2013 following the resignation of Benedict XVI. His papacy focused on inclusion, humility, and social justice, earning him the title “The People’s Pope.” He championed the poor, advocated for refugees, and spoke out on issues such as climate change, economic inequality, and the role of women in the Church.
Francis also made headlines for his more accepting stance toward the LGBTQ community, famously stating, “Who am I to judge?” However, in 2024, he reaffirmed the Church’s opposition to gender reassignment, surrogacy, abortion, and euthanasia in a document titled Dignitas Infinita.
Preparing for the End
In April 2024, Pope Francis approved an updated edition of the liturgical book for papal funerals. This version includes simplified rites and emphasizes the Pope’s role as a servant of Christ rather than a worldly figure. Archbishop Diego Ravelli noted the Pope had requested a humble and faith-focused ceremony.
Legacy and the Road Ahead
Francis’ final public appearance occurred on Easter Sunday, just a day before his passing. Despite recent health struggles, he greeted worshippers from St. Peter’s Square and met with U.S. Vice President JD Vance.
The conclave to elect his successor is expected within 15 to 20 days. As the Church mourns, over 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide reflect on his transformative leadership. From washing refugees’ feet to challenging global inequality, Pope Francis leaves a lasting legacy rooted in compassion, service, and unwavering faith.
