Pope Francis, the head of the Catholic Church, has died on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. He passed away at 7:35 am at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta. Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, announced the Pope’s death, describing him as a “true disciple of the Lord Jesus” who dedicated his life to serving the Lord and the Church.
The Pope had been in poor health for some time, struggling with chronic lung disease and respiratory issues. In February, he spent 38 days in the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital after being diagnosed with bilateral pneumonia. Despite his health issues, Pope Francis continued to carry out his papal duties until his condition worsened.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, Pope Francis was known for his humility, commitment to social justice, and advocacy for the poor and marginalized. He became the first pope from the Americas and the Southern Hemisphere in 2013, choosing the name Francis in honor of Saint Francis of Assisi.
The Pope’s funeral rites will be guided by an updated edition of the liturgical book for papal funeral rites, which he approved in April 2024. According to Archbishop Diego Ravelli, Master of Apostolic Ceremonies, Pope Francis had requested that the funeral be simplified and focused on expressing the faith of the Church in the Risen Body of Christ.
Vatican News
