Pope Francis greets pilgrims during 2013 World Youth Day in Rio. Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images
VATICAN CITY — April 21, 2025: Pope Francis, the spiritual leader of over 1.3 billion Roman Catholics worldwide, has died at the age of 88, the Vatican announced early Easter Monday.
The pontiff passed away at 7:35 a.m. CEST in the Domus Sanctae Marthae residence within Vatican City, where he had lived since the beginning of his papacy.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell confirmed the death in a televised statement through Vatican Media, ending the tenure of the first Latin American and Jesuit pope in history. The announcement came just a day after Pope Francis appeared in public for Easter Sunday blessings from the Apostolic Palace, though observers noted his frail condition.
Although the official cause of death has yet to be confirmed, Italian media suggest a suspected stroke may have occurred. The Pope had recently been discharged from Gemelli Hospital in late March after receiving treatment for double pneumonia and early-stage kidney failure.
Pope Described as a Humble Leader Who Reformed the Papacy
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis was elected in March 2013 following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI. His appointment marked a turning point for the Catholic Church—symbolizing a shift from European traditions to a broader, more inclusive global outlook.
During his 12-year papacy, Francis became widely known for his simplicity, compassion, and deep commitment to social and environmental justice. He was a vocal advocate for the poor, refugees, and the marginalized, often challenging political and ecclesiastical norms. His encyclical Laudato Si’, calling for urgent action against climate change, became a global rallying point for environmental activism.
The Pope also spearheaded efforts to improve interfaith relations and initiated internal reforms addressing sexual abuse within the Church. Though controversial at times, his openness to modern societal challenges earned him both praise and criticism from within and beyond Catholic circles.
Final Days and Global Reactions Prior to Francis Death
In his final weeks, Pope Francis’ public appearances had grown noticeably limited, and his voice weaker. Despite his ailments, he continued to fulfill key papal duties and met with several visiting dignitaries. One of the last high-profile visits was with U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance and, earlier in April, King Charles III and Queen Camilla.
Following the news of his passing, King Charles expressed his sorrow, stating he felt “deeply saddened” but comforted by their final audience just days prior. Vice President Vance described the Pope as “a moral compass in a turbulent age.”
Church bells rang out across Europe, Latin America, and parts of Africa as the faithful gathered for prayer vigils. In Buenos Aires, thousands assembled at the Metropolitan Cathedral where Bergoglio once served as Archbishop.
Funeral and Burial Arrangements
The Vatican has initiated preparations for the funeral rites, which are expected to follow traditional protocol for a reigning pope. Pope Francis will lie in state in St. Peter’s Basilica later this week, with thousands anticipated to pay their final respects.
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According to Vatican sources, the late pontiff had expressed his wish to be buried at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore—a deviation from the usual papal tombs beneath St. Peter’s Basilica. This request reflects his personal devotion to the Virgin Mary, frequently invoked throughout his papacy.
Pope Francis’ successor will be elected in a conclave of cardinals, though no official date has been announced.
