Vatican City – April 21, 2025
Pope Francis, the 266th leader of the Roman Catholic Church, has died at the age of 88 after suffering a stroke that led to heart failure, the Vatican confirmed on Monday morning.
The pontiff passed away peacefully at 7:35 a.m. local time in his residence at the Domus Sanctae Marthae in Vatican City. The Holy See stated that a sudden cerebral event left him comatose, followed by cardiac failure that proved irreversible.
Health Challenges Leading to Pope Francis’s Death
Pope Francis had long battled health issues, especially in his later years. Earlier this year, in February 2025, he was hospitalized with double pneumonia and acute respiratory distress. His 38-day stay at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital had raised global concern for his wellbeing.
Despite his condition, Pope Francis made a surprising appearance on Easter Sunday, just one day before his death, blessing tens of thousands from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica in what is now remembered as his final public act.
The Legacy of Pope Francis
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis made history in 2013 by becoming the first Jesuit pope and the first from Latin America. Known for his humility, progressive views on social justice, and efforts to reform the Vatican bureaucracy, he was a transformative figure during his 12-year papacy.
Pope Francis championed causes such as climate action, refugee rights, interfaith dialogue, and economic equality. He also navigated controversies surrounding church abuse scandals with what many saw as a blend of transparency and compassion.
What Happens Now? The Vatican’s Next Steps
The Vatican has declared nine days of mourning, known as novemdiales, following the pope’s death. His funeral will be held in St. Peter’s Square later this week, with world leaders and religious figures expected to attend.
The College of Cardinals will soon convene a papal conclave to elect his successor. Until a new pope is chosen, Vatican affairs will be managed by the Camerlengo, Cardinal Kevin Farrell.
Global Reaction to the Death of Pope Francis
World leaders, religious institutions, and millions of faithful Catholics have paid tribute to Pope Francis’s legacy. President of Italy Sergio Mattarella called him “a beacon of peace and compassion,” while Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby praised his “courageous faith.”
Social media has been flooded with prayers and condolences under trending hashtags such as #PopeFrancis and #RIPFrancis.
