VATICAN CITY — April 21, 2025
Pope Francis, the 266th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church and a transformative figure in modern religious history, died on Easter Monday at the age of 88. The Vatican announced that he passed away peacefully at 7:35 a.m. local time at his residence, the Domus Sanctae Marthae, in Vatican City.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Francis made history in 2013 when he became the first Jesuit, the first Latin American, and the first non-European pope in over 1,200 years. His 12-year papacy was marked by a commitment to humility, inclusivity, and social justice, often challenging traditional Vatican norms.
Despite battling health issues, including a recent hospitalization for double pneumonia, Pope Francis remained active in his duties. He delivered his final public blessing on Easter Sunday, just one day before his passing.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Vatican’s camerlengo, announced the pope’s death in a televised statement, praising Francis for dedicating his life to serving the Church and advocating for the marginalized.
Tributes have poured in from around the world. In his native Argentina, church bells tolled in mourning, and faithful gathered in churches to honor his memory.
Pope Francis will be laid to rest in the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome, marking the first time a pope has been buried outside the Vatican since 1903. The funeral is expected to take place within the next week, adhering to his wishes for a simpler ceremony.
As the Catholic Church enters a period of mourning, preparations are underway for the conclave to elect the next pope. The conclave is anticipated to begin between May 6 and May 11, 2025.
Pope Francis leaves behind a legacy of compassion, reform, and a renewed focus on the Church’s role in addressing global challenges.
