Pope Francis, the 266th leader of the Roman Catholic Church and its first Latin American pontiff, died on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. The Vatican confirmed that he passed away at 7:35 a.m. local time in his residence at Casa Santa Marta, following complications from a prolonged respiratory illness that developed into double pneumonia.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis made history when he was elected on March 13, 2013, becoming the first Jesuit and the first pope from the Americas. His papacy was marked by a commitment to humility, social justice, and outreach to marginalized communities. He chose to reside in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta rather than the traditional Apostolic Palace, emphasizing a simpler lifestyle.
Throughout his 12-year tenure, Pope Francis was known for his progressive views and efforts to address institutional issues within the Church. He condemned clergy sexual abuse cover-ups, advocated for migrants, raised concerns about climate change, and supported civil unions for same-sex couples. Despite his reformist stance, he maintained certain traditional Church values.
Francis had a history of health issues, including part of a lung removed in his youth and colon surgery in 2021. His final hospital stay lasted 38 days — the longest of his papacy.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Vatican camerlengo, announced the pope’s death and praised his lifetime commitment to serving the Lord and the Church. He emphasized Francis’ dedication to gospel values, inclusive love, and attention to the marginalized.
As the Catholic Church enters a period of sede vacante, preparations are underway for the 2025 papal conclave to elect Pope Francis’s successor. The Vatican has not yet announced details regarding funeral arrangements.