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Pope Francis Dies on Easter Monday Aged 88 after a long struggle with health issues including stroke and heart failure.
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The pontiff was a transformative figure in the Catholic Church known for his advocacy for the poor and marginalized and his efforts to modernize the Church.
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His death was announced by Cardinal Kevin Farrell who will serve as acting head of the Vatican until a successor is chosen.
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The Vatican has begun traditional funeral rites and preparations for the conclave to elect the next pope.
Pope Francis, the first pope from Latin America and a significant spiritual guide for over 12 years, passed away peacefully on Easter Monday at 7:35 a.m. local time, in his residence at Casa Santa Marta in Vatican City.
His passing was due to stroke, coma, and irreversible cardiovascular collapse, following a challenging health journey that included double pneumonia earlier this year, along with high blood pressure and type II diabetes.
Even with his delicate health, Pope Francis was present during Holy Week, making a heartfelt final public appearance on Easter Sunday where he greeted thousands of worshippers in St. Peter’s Square, sharing Easter blessings. This final moment was deeply moving for the global Catholic community and showcased his unwavering dedication until the end.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Vatican camerlengo, announced the pope’s passing with profound sorrow, expressing heartfelt gratitude for Francis’ example as a servant of the Lord. Farrell will manage the Vatican’s operations during the sede vacante period until a new pope is chosen.
The Vatican has already begun the initial steps for the papal funeral rites, including confirming the death and preparing the body for burial. The pope’s remains were dressed in his white cassock and later in red liturgical vestments, before being moved to the private papal chapel at Casa Santa Marta.
A public viewing is set to begin at St. Peter’s Basilica, allowing the faithful to pay their respects. The funeral is expected to occur between the fourth and sixth day after his death.
Pope Francis died on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88 at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta. pic.twitter.com/jUIkbplVi2
— Vatican News (@VaticanNews) April 21, 2025
Tributes from religious leaders, political figures, and everyday believers have flooded in from around the globe. Pope Francis was widely celebrated for his compassion, humility, and relentless advocacy for peace, migrants, the disadvantaged, and interfaith dialogue. His leadership often challenged conservative elements within the Church, but he garnered admiration worldwide for his progressive views on social justice and environmental concerns.
All eyes are now on the process of selecting his successor. The College of Cardinals, made up of those under 80, will gather in the Sistine Chapel about 15 to 20 days after the pope’s passing to elect the next pontiff in a conclave.
Several cardinals are seen as strong candidates, including Jean-Marc Aveline from France, Peter Erdő from Hungary, and Pietro Parolin, the Vatican Secretary of State. The election will require a two-thirds majority vote, with white smoke indicating the successful election of a new pope.
The death of Pope Francis signifies the end of an era for the Catholic Church and ushers in a time of mourning and transition. His legacy as a “pilgrim of hope,” striving to bring the Church closer to those on the margins, will continue to resonate with the faithful worldwide as they look forward to the future leadership of the Church.Also Read: Is MAFS Australia’s Jacqui Pregnant? Her Response to Clint Baby Rumours
Last Updated on April 22, 2025 by 247 News Around The World
