Pope Francis Dies at 88
Pope Francis, the 266th and first Latin American pope of the Roman Catholic Church, passed away on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. He died at Casa Santa Marta in the Vatican, following a prolonged battle with double pneumonia and respiratory complications.
A Transformative Papacy
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in 1936, Pope Francis became the first Jesuit and the first non-European pope in modern history when he ascended to the papacy in 2013. His leadership was marked by a commitment to humility, social justice, and inclusivity. He advocated for the marginalized, addressed climate change, and sought reform within the Vatican. His tenure also focused on addressing the sexual abuse crisis, though some critics felt his efforts were insufficient.
Final Days and Funeral Arrangements
In his final public appearance, Pope Francis addressed the faithful in St. Peter’s Square on Easter Sunday, urging prayers for peace, particularly in conflict zones like Gaza. His health had been declining for several months, with hospitalizations due to respiratory issues and pneumonia. He had been using a wheelchair since 2022 due to knee problems.
In accordance with his wishes, Pope Francis will be buried in a simple wooden coffin at the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome, making him the first pope since Leo XIII to be interred outside the Vatican. His funeral is scheduled to take place four to six days following his death.
Global Tributes
World leaders have expressed condolences and praised Pope Francis’s legacy. King Charles III and Prime Minister Keir Starmer of the UK, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine, and U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance have all honored his commitment to peace, compassion, and human dignity. In Spain, the government declared three days of national mourning, with flags lowered to half-mast on public buildings.
The Path Forward
With the passing of Pope Francis, the Vatican will begin preparations for a papal conclave to elect his successor. The process will be influenced by the many cardinals appointed by Francis during his papacy. The world now reflects on the profound impact of a pope who reshaped the Catholic Church and left an indelible mark on the global stage.
