Vatican City — Pope Francis, the 266th head of the Roman Catholic Church, passed away on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. He died peacefully at 7:35 a.m. at his residence in the Domus Sanctae Marthae, Vatican City. The announcement was formally made by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis made history in March 2013 as the first Jesuit, the first Latin American, and the first non-European pope in over a millennium. Throughout his 12-year papacy, he was widely known for his commitment to humility, reform, and social justice, addressing critical issues such as environmental care, global poverty, and clerical abuse within the Church.
Although the Vatican has not released an official cause of death, reports indicate that he may have suffered a brain-related complication, following recent hospitalizations for severe respiratory issues.
In keeping with his personal wishes, Pope Francis will be laid to rest at the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome—marking the first time since 1903 that a pontiff will be buried outside the Vatican. He also requested a modest funeral ceremony, opting for a plain wooden coffin and foregoing the traditional public viewing.
The Catholic Church has now entered a period of mourning as preparations begin for the conclave to elect a new pope. The conclave is expected to take place between May 6 and May 11, once all eligible cardinals arrive in Rome.
World leaders and religious figures across the globe have paid tribute to Pope Francis, praising his leadership, compassion, and unwavering dedication to promoting peace, unity, and dignity for all.
