Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. His death was announced by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Vatican camerlengo, from the chapel of the Domus Sanctae Marthae, his residence. The announcement paid tribute to Pope Francis’s lifelong dedication to serving the Lord and the Church, highlighting his commitment to Gospel values, compassion for the poor and marginalized, and his example of universal love. TimePOLITICO+4AP News+4Wikipedia+4
Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in 1936, Pope Francis was the first Latin American and Jesuit pope. He was elected in 2013 following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI. Known for his progressive stances, he addressed pressing global issues including migration, climate change, economic inequality, and LGBTQ+ rights. He also called for the abolition of the death penalty and condemned the treatment of Indigenous students in Canadian residential schools, labeling it as genocide. Business Insider+1Axios+1Axios+2Time+2Business Insider+2
Pope Francis’s papacy was marked by efforts to reform the Catholic Church and make it more inclusive. He supported LGBTQ rights, advocated for immigrant protections, prioritized climate action, and elevated the role of women in Vatican leadership. His papacy resonated with modern Catholics but was criticized by traditionalists. TimeAxios+1Time+1
Despite longstanding health issues and a hospitalization earlier in 2025 for pneumonia and kidney failure, he continued his duties, delivering his final Easter blessing from St. Peter’s Basilica on April 20. His death occurred the next morning at his Vatican residence, the Casa Santa Marta. Reuters+2Business Insider+2AP News+2
World leaders have paid tribute to Pope Francis. French President Emmanuel Macron called him a “man of humility, on the side of the most vulnerable and most fragile.” British Prime Minister Keir Starmer praised him as “a Pope for the poor, the downtrodden and the forgotten.” President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen said, “He inspired millions, far beyond the Catholic Church, with his humility and love so pure for the less fortunate.” Wikipedia
According to Vatican law, the 2025 papal conclave can begin at the earliest on May 6, 2025 (15 days after the sede vacante). Wikipedia
Pope Francis is expected to be buried at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore according to his wishes.
