Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88, in his residence at the Domus Sanctae Marthae in Vatican City. His death occurred at 7:35 a.m. local time, just a day after delivering his final Easter blessing from a wheelchair in St. Peter’s Square. The Vatican confirmed his passing two hours later through Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church Wikipedia.
The Pope had been battling significant health issues, including a recent five-week hospitalization for double pneumonia. Although the exact cause of death has not been officially disclosed, reports suggest it may have been due to a brain-related issue, possibly a stroke Wikipedia.
Pope Francis made history as the first Jesuit pope, the first from the Americas, and the first non-European pontiff in over a millennium. Elected in 2013 following Pope Benedict XVI’s resignation, he was renowned for his humility, progressive views, and dedication to social justice. He chose to reside in the modest Casa Santa Marta rather than the Apostolic Palace and was a vocal advocate for marginalized communities, environmental stewardship, and inclusivity within the Church .Wikipedia+5People.com+5People.com+5
His papacy was marked by significant reforms and outreach, including support for same-sex civil unions, condemnation of clerical abuse cover-ups, and efforts to address the climate crisis. Despite facing criticism and health challenges, he remained active in his duties until shortly before his death .People.com
Global leaders and communities have expressed profound sorrow at his passing. U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance, who met with the Pope the day before his death, praised his legacy. King Charles III and Queen Camilla, among his final visitors, reflected on their recent meeting and lauded his commitment to unity and compassion People.com. Tributes have poured in from around the world, highlighting his impact on both spiritual and humanitarian fronts Time.
In accordance with his wishes, Pope Francis will be buried in the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome, making him the first pope to be interred outside the Vatican since Pope Leo XIII in 1903. He had also approved plans to simplify the papal funeral rites, opting for a basic wooden coffin and foregoing the tradition of public display on a raised platform Wikipedia.
The Vatican has declared a period of mourning, and preparations are underway for the upcoming papal conclave, which is expected to begin between May 6 and May 11, 2025, to elect his successor. Pope Francis’s death marks the end of a transformative era for the Catholic Church, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, reform, and unwavering dedication to the Gospel.
