Pope Francis Passes Away at 88 — The World Reacts to His Sudden Death One Day After Easter
Pope Francis, beloved head of the Roman Catholic Church, passed away at the age of 88 on April 21, 2025, just one day after Easter. His death came as a shock to many around the world, despite his recent health struggles. The Vatican confirmed that the cause of death was a cerebral stroke that led to a coma and cardiac arrest. He died peacefully at the Domus Sanctae Marthae, his residence inside Vatican City, surrounded by close aides and members of his spiritual household.
Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, made history as the first pope from Latin America and the first Jesuit to hold the papacy. His twelve-year reign was marked by efforts to modernize the Catholic Church, reach out to the marginalized, and emphasize mercy and compassion over dogma. He was known for his humility, shunning many traditional papal luxuries and choosing to live in a modest guesthouse rather than the Apostolic Palace.
His final public appearance on Easter Sunday showed a frail but determined leader. Despite his weakened condition, he rode in his popemobile around St. Peter’s Square, blessing children and waving to tens of thousands of faithful. Unable to speak at length, he asked Cardinal Angelo Comastri to deliver his “Urbi et Orbi” message on his behalf. The message focused on peace, reconciliation, and the suffering in Gaza, where he expressed solidarity with Christians and civilians enduring violence.
Shortly after his death, aides revealed that Francis had dictated a final message of faith, asking that the Church continue to embrace the poor, welcome the outsider, and care for the earth. His last words, shared through a statement prepared in advance, were: “Do not be afraid. The Lord is with us. Walk in love.” These words quickly went viral across social media, inspiring millions and bringing many to tears.
World leaders reacted swiftly. U.S. President Joe Biden called Pope Francis “a shepherd of peace and a moral compass for our time.” Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed profound sorrow, calling him “a pope of the people.” The Dalai Lama issued a statement honoring Francis’s efforts to build interfaith understanding and promote kindness.
In Argentina, thousands gathered in Buenos Aires to honor their native son with vigils, prayers, and public processions. Meanwhile, at the Vatican, black flags flew as bells tolled. A formal mourning period has begun, and preparations are underway for a funeral Mass to be held later this week. Foreign dignitaries, heads of state, religious leaders, and faithful from around the world are expected to attend.
Pope Francis leaves behind a legacy of courage, compassion, and change. In a world often divided, he preached unity. In a Church often criticized, he reminded believers of grace. And in his final moments, he remained what he always tried to be — a servant of God and a voice for the voiceless.
