Pope Francis, the 266th head of the Roman Catholic Church, has passed away at the age of 88, the Vatican announced on Monday, April 21, 2025.
The pontiff died at approximately 7:35 a.m. at his official residence, Casa Santa Marta, within Vatican City. The announcement, released by the Vatican Press Office, marked the end of a papacy defined by profound humility, a commitment to social justice, and a tireless voice for the marginalized.
“Pope Francis died on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88 at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta,” the statement read.
A Battle with Illness
In the months leading to his death, Pope Francis had been recovering after a prolonged hospital stay. He was admitted to Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital on February 14, 2025, initially for bronchitis, but his condition worsened over time.
By February 18, doctors diagnosed him with bilateral pneumonia. After spending 38 days in hospital, he returned to the Vatican to continue his recovery — a recovery that, tragically, was not to last.
A Legacy of Humility and Compassion
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis was the first Jesuit pope, the first from the Americas, and the first non-European pope in over 1,200 years. Elected in 2013, he succeeded Pope Benedict XVI following his historic resignation.
Throughout his 12-year papacy, Francis earned global admiration for his modest lifestyle, his calls for climate action, his outreach to interfaith communities, and his unwavering defense of the poor, the vulnerable, and the voiceless.
“He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage, and universal love, especially in favor of the poorest and most marginalized,” said Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber.
“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 the One and Triune God.”
The World Mourns a Shepherd
Reactions to Pope Francis’ death have poured in from global leaders, faith communities, and citizens of all backgrounds, reflecting the deep spiritual and moral imprint he left on the world.
Funeral arrangements and details on the period of mourning are expected to be announced shortly by the Vatican.
As Easter’s message of resurrection and eternal life echoed across the Christian world, the passing of Pope Francis on Easter Monday feels especially poignant. His enduring message — one of hope, dignity, and boundless compassion — will live on in the hearts of millions.
