Pope Francis has died, the Vatican announced early Monday morning in Rome. He was 88.
| Published April 20, 2025
VATICAN CITY — In a solemn announcement that marks the end of an era, the Vatican has confirmed that Pope Francis, the 266th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church and the first from the Americas, has passed away at the age of 88. The Holy Father died peacefully on the morning of Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at 7:35 a.m. local time in his residence at the Casa Santa Marta within Vatican City.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on December 17, 1936, Pope Francis was elected to the papacy on March 13, 2013, following the historic resignation of Pope Benedict XVI. He was the first Jesuit pope, the first pope from Latin America, and the first non-European leader of the Church in over 1,200 years — a symbolic and spiritual milestone that reflected the Catholic Church’s expanding global presence.
File/Newly elected Pope Francis I appears on the central balcony of St Peter’s Basilica on March 13, 2013 in Vatican City, Vatican. Argentinian Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio was elected as the 266th Pontiff. (Alessandra Benedetti/Corbis via Getty Images)
A Legacy of Reform, Inclusion, and Global Outreach
Pope Francis’ twelve-year papacy was marked by bold efforts to steer the Church through the complexities of the modern world. With a humble demeanor and a pastor’s heart, he focused his ministry on mercy, social justice, environmental stewardship, and the inclusion of marginalized communities. His papal motto, Miserando atque eligendo (“By having mercy, by choosing him”), echoed his lifelong devotion to compassion.
Throughout his tenure, Pope Francis called on global leaders to address climate change, decried the widening gap between the rich and the poor, and opened conversations on controversial topics within the Church — including migration, same-sex civil unions, and the role of women. While many praised his progressive vision, his leadership was not without criticism, especially from more traditional factions within the Church who viewed some reforms as too far-reaching.
Still, Pope Francis had worked to the very last when able and made a surprise appearance for Easter Sunday blessings at the Vatican’s St Peter’s Square, as Breitbart News reported.
The late Pope – who was born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires – made his mark in a number of ways.
Health Concerns and Final Blessing
Pope Francis had faced a series of health challenges in recent years, including chronic knee problems, intestinal surgery, and most recently, a bout with double pneumonia. Despite these issues, he remained active in his ministry and continued to appear publicly when able. Just one day before his passing, he delivered his final Easter Sunday blessing, Urbi et Orbi, from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, addressing the faithful with characteristic warmth and resolve.
“Even amid illness, the Holy Father never ceased to serve,” said Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni. “He showed strength, humility, and an unwavering commitment to God’s people until his final day.”
File/Pope Francis leads a meeting of prayer with families at St. Peter’s Square on October 26, 2013 in Vatican City, Vatican. (Franco Origlia/Getty Images)
Worldwide Reactions
Condolences and tributes have poured in from around the globe. World leaders, religious figures, and millions of Catholics expressed sorrow at the loss of a spiritual leader who transcended borders and inspired dialogue across faiths. U.S. President [Name], Argentine President [Name], and European Commission officials issued formal statements honoring Pope Francis’ humanitarian legacy and moral leadership.
The Grand Imam of al-Azhar, Sheikh Ahmed el-Tayeb, called the pope “a partner in peace and brotherhood,” reflecting the strong interfaith efforts Pope Francis pursued throughout his papacy.
Looking Ahead: The Path to a New Papacy
With the pontiff’s passing, the Catholic Church enters a sede vacante (vacant seat) period. The College of Cardinals will now convene in a conclave at the Sistine Chapel to elect the next Bishop of Rome. While no clear frontrunner has emerged yet, speculation is already rising regarding potential successors who might continue — or depart from — Francis’ reform-oriented trajectory.
The Vatican also announced that Pope Francis’ body will lie in state at St. Peter’s Basilica beginning April 23. His funeral mass will be held later in the week and is expected to draw global dignitaries and millions of mourners. Following tradition, he will be buried in the crypt beneath St. Peter’s Basilica.
A Humble Servant to the End
Pope Francis will be remembered not only as a reformer and trailblazer, but also as a shepherd of the people. Whether embracing the poor in the favelas of Brazil, visiting war-torn areas of the Middle East, or washing the feet of prisoners during Holy Week, his commitment to the Gospel was lived in action.
In one of his last public reflections, the pope wrote:
“Faith is not an escape from life’s trials but a light that guides us through them. We are called to serve, to listen, to heal — and above all, to love.”
As the Church prepares to mourn and honor its departed leader, millions around the world give thanks for his life, witness, and enduring legacy.
SOURCES: BREITBART – Vatican Announces Pope Francis Has Died
INQUIRER.NET – Pope Francis has died aged 88 – Vatican
VATICAN NEW – Pope Francis has died on Easter Monday aged 88
AP NEWS – Pope Francis, first Latin American pontiff who ministered with a charming, humble style, dies at 88
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