Pope Francis Dies at 88 on Easter Monday, Vatican Confirms

By Andrew Haruna – Vatican City

Pope Francis, the 266th Bishop of Rome and leader of the worldwide Catholic Church, has died at the age of 88 on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025. He passed away peacefully at 7:35 AM at his residence in Casa Santa Marta, Vatican City.

The official announcement came at 9:45 AM from Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, who addressed the global Catholic community with these solemn words:

“Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis… With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite merciful love of the One and Triune God.”

Final Days and Health Struggles

The late pontiff had been battling severe respiratory issues in the weeks leading up to his death. He was admitted to Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital on February 14, 2025, after suffering from bronchitis. On February 18, his condition worsened, and he was diagnosed with bilateral pneumonia.

Despite 38 days of intensive medical care, Pope Francis was discharged to continue recovery at home. However, his health continued to deteriorate until his passing on Easter Monday.

Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis had long struggled with respiratory problems. In 1957, he underwent surgery to remove part of a lung following a severe infection. These issues resurfaced in later years, prompting him to cancel a scheduled trip to the United Arab Emirates in November 2023 due to influenza and lung inflammation.

A Humble Servant of the Gospel

Since his election in March 2013, Pope Francis was widely known for his commitment to humility, social justice, and care for the marginalized. His papacy emphasized simplicity and reform, both within the Church and in global outreach.

In April 2024, the Pope approved a revised version of the Ordo Exsequiarum Romani Pontificis—the liturgical text guiding papal funerals. The update reflects his personal wish for simplified rites, highlighting the funeral of the Pope not as a political event but as a celebration of faith in the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Funeral Preparations Underway

According to Archbishop Diego Ravelli, Master of the Apostolic Ceremonies, Pope Francis requested that his funeral underscore the pastoral and spiritual dimension of his role. His body will be transferred to the chapel, placed in a coffin, and interred according to the renewed papal funeral guidelines.

Details of the funeral Mass are expected to be announced in the coming days.