Pope Francis died on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88 at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, made the official announcement, stating, “At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father.”
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires in 1936, Pope Francis became the 266th pontiff in March 2013. He was the first Jesuit pope, the first from the Americas, and the first non-European pontiff in over a millennium. His papacy was marked by a focus on humility, social justice, and outreach to marginalized communities. He chose to reside in the Vatican’s guesthouse rather than the traditional Apostolic Palace and was known for his advocacy on issues such as climate change, immigration, and poverty.
In the weeks leading up to his death, Pope Francis had been battling health issues, including a serious bout of double pneumonia. His passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from around the world, recognizing his efforts to modernize the Catholic Church and his commitment to compassion and inclusivity.
Following his death, the Catholic Church will enter a period of mourning, and preparations are underway for the papal conclave, where eligible cardinals will convene to elect the next pope.
