Pope Francis has died at the age of 88. He passed away peacefully on Easter Monday, April 14, 2025, at 7:35 a.m. in his residence at Casa Santa Marta in the Vatican.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, announced the Pope’s death just two hours later. He said, “With deep sorrow, I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and His Church. He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage, and universal love, especially in favor of the poorest and most marginalized.”
The Pope had been battling health issues for some time. He was admitted to the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital on February 14 after struggling with bronchitis. Doctors later diagnosed him with bilateral pneumonia on February 18. Although he was discharged 38 days later to continue recovery at home, his condition did not improve.
Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina, had long dealt with respiratory problems. In his early twenties, he had part of his lung removed due to a severe infection. In recent years, these health issues returned. He cancelled a trip to the United Arab Emirates in late 2023 due to influenza and lung inflammation.
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Despite his declining health, Pope Francis remained committed to his duties. In April 2024, he approved an updated version of the papal funeral rites, which will now guide his own funeral.
Archbishop Diego Ravelli, Master of Apostolic Ceremonies, revealed that the Pope requested a simple funeral. “He wanted a ceremony that reflected his role as a pastor and a disciple of Christ—not as a powerful figure,” Ravelli said.
According to the new rite, the Pope’s body will be moved to the chapel before being placed in the coffin. Details of the funeral Mass have not yet been released.
Pope Francis, the first Jesuit and the first Latin American pope, led the Catholic Church for more than a decade. He will be remembered for his humility, care for the poor, and efforts to reform the Church.