Vatican City – The world is mourning the loss of Pope Francis, who passed away peacefully on Easter Monday, April 21st, 2025, at the age of 88. The beloved pontiff, known for his humility and compassion, died at 7:35 AM in his Vatican residence at Casa Santa Marta.
The official announcement came shortly after 9:45 AM from Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber.
“With deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis… His life was a testimony to the Gospel—marked by service, courage, and love, especially for the poor and marginalized,” Cardinal Farrell said.
This Easter Monday, which celebrates Christ’s resurrection, now bears added poignancy for the Catholic Church as it marks the final earthly journey of a pope who championed mercy and inclusion above all.
A Long Struggle With Illness
Pope Francis had been battling health complications for years. His condition took a sharp turn on February 14th, 2025, when he was admitted to Rome’s Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital with bronchitis. Days later, doctors diagnosed him with bilateral pneumonia.
After 38 days under medical care, the Pope was discharged and returned to Casa Santa Marta. Despite efforts to recover, his health continued to deteriorate.
Notably, his respiratory challenges began in youth. In 1957, as a young seminarian in Argentina, Jorge Mario Bergoglio had part of his lung removed due to a severe infection.
Later in life, he often struggled with respiratory illnesses and even canceled several major trips, including one to the UAE in late 2023 due to flu and lung inflammation.
Final Wishes and a Simple Farewell
In April 2024, Pope Francis approved a revised edition of the papal funeral rites. The updated Ordo Exsequiarum Romani Pontificis emphasizes humility and faith over grandeur.
The new rites dictate that the Pope’s body is transferred to the chapel immediately and not left in the room where he passed.
Archbishop Diego Ravelli, Master of Apostolic Ceremonies, confirmed that Pope Francis requested a simple, faith-centered funeral.
“The funeral of the Roman Pontiff is that of a pastor and disciple—not of a powerful man of this world,” Ravelli explained.
Funeral details, including date and public arrangements, are expected to be announced in the coming days.
Tributes From Across the Globe
World leaders have expressed profound sorrow at the Pope’s passing. Their tributes reflect the global reach of his influence.
- Dutch PM Dick Schoof called him “a man of the people in every way.”
- Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament, noted “his contagious smile captured millions of hearts worldwide.”
- Israeli President Isaac Herzog praised his “boundless compassion.”
- Swiss President Karin Keller-Sutter hailed him as “a great spiritual leader and tireless advocate for peace.”
- Scottish First Minister John Swinney described him as “a voice for peace, tolerance, and reconciliation.”
From slums in Latin America to global corridors of power, Pope Francis inspired with simplicity, empathy, and unshakable faith. As the world bids farewell, his legacy endures—in hearts, in history, and in the spirit of the Church he led.
