Pope Francis, the first Latin American to lead the Roman Catholic Church and a transformative figure in the Vatican’s modern history, passed away on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025. He died at the age of 88 in his Vatican residence, Casa Santa Marta, following prolonged health struggles including pneumonia and other respiratory ailments.
The official announcement came from Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, who solemnly declared:
“Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father…” He remembered Pope Francis for dedicating his life to the service of the Lord, preaching compassion, courage, and love — especially for the marginalized.
Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, underwent lung surgery as a young man in Argentina and battled recurrent respiratory illnesses throughout his life. His health declined notably in 2025, culminating in a 38-day hospitalization at Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic in February. Diagnosed with bilateral pneumonia, he returned to the Vatican in March but never fully recovered.
As recently as April 2024, the Pope had approved a revised version of the Ordo Exsequiarum Romani Pontificis, a guide for papal funeral rites. The updated edition focuses on simplicity and spiritual humility — a reflection of Pope Francis’ own wishes. According to Archbishop Diego Ravelli, Francis wanted his funeral to reflect the life of a disciple of Christ rather than a worldly dignitary.
Details about his funeral Mass are expected to be announced soon, but it will be conducted under the newly approved liturgical guidelines.
Pope Francis’ death marks the end of a 12-year papacy defined by efforts to reform the Church, promote social justice, and emphasize compassion over tradition — leaving a deep and complex legacy behind.
