Breaking: Pope Francis Dies at 88
Pope Francis, the 266th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church and its first leader from Latin America, passed away at 7:35 a.m. on Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. Photo/France 24.
By Robert Assad
Vatican City
Pope Francis, the 266th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church and its first leader from Latin America, passed away at 7:35 a.m. on Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88.
The announcement was made by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, from the Casa Santa Marta. Cardinal Farrell lauded the late pope as a “true disciple of the Lord Jesus,” whose life was devoted to serving the Church and championing the marginalized.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis was elected in 2013 following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI. His 12-year papacy was marked by humility, progressive reforms, and a focus on inclusivity.
He was known for his advocacy on behalf of the poor, migrants, and the environment, and for his efforts to modernize the Church’s approach to various social issues.
Pope Francis had a history of respiratory issues, having undergone lung surgery in his youth. In February 2025, he was hospitalized at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital due to bilateral pneumonia.
Despite initial signs of recovery, his condition remained critical, and he ultimately succumbed to the illness after 38 days in the hospital.
In 2024, anticipating the need for reform, Pope Francis approved a new edition of the Ordo Exsequiarum Romani Pontificis, the liturgical guide for papal funerals.
The updated rites emphasize the pope’s role as a pastor and disciple of Christ rather than a worldly figure of power. Notable changes include confirming the pope’s death in his private chapel, placing his body directly into a simplified wooden coffin with a zinc lining, and eliminating the traditional triple-coffin burial.
Additionally, Pope Francis requested to be buried in the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome, reflecting his devotion to the Virgin Mary.
With the pope’s passing, the Vatican has entered the sede vacante period. Cardinal Farrell will oversee Church administration during this time, including preparations for the conclave to elect the next pope.
Cardinals under the age of 80 from around the world will convene in the Sistine Chapel, where they will vote in secrecy until a new pontiff is chosen.
Pope Francis’s death marks the end of a transformative era for the Catholic Church, characterized by efforts to bring the institution closer to the people and to address contemporary global challenges with compassion and humility.
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