Pope Francis, the 266th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church, passed away on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. The Vatican confirmed that he died peacefully at 7:35 a.m. at his residence in Casa Santa Marta, Vatican City.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Vatican camerlengo, made the announcement: “At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of his Church.” He described the late pontiff as a model of Gospel living marked by faith, courage, and compassion for the world’s most marginalized.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis made history in 2013 by becoming the first pope from the Americas and the first Jesuit to ascend to the papacy. Throughout his papacy, he was revered for his humility, progressive views, and tireless efforts to reform the Church.
In recent years, Pope Francis faced persistent health challenges. In February 2025, he was diagnosed with bilateral pneumonia, which significantly worsened his condition. Following 38 days of hospitalization, he returned to the Vatican to continue his recovery but remained in fragile health.
His health struggles date back decades. In his early 20s, he had a portion of his lung removed due to a severe respiratory infection. In 2023, he was forced to cancel a trip to the United Arab Emirates due to lung inflammation and influenza.
Despite his ailments, Pope Francis remained a powerful moral voice on global issues, from climate change to economic inequality and interfaith dialogue. As the world mourns his passing, tributes are pouring in from religious and world leaders alike, remembering him as a shepherd to all and a champion of the poor.
