Pope Francis Dies at 88: Vatican Mourns the Loss of a Humble Shepherd
Vatican City
On Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, Pope Francis peacefully passed away at the age of 88 in his residence at Casa Santa Marta, Vatican City. The announcement was made by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, shortly before 10 AM local time.
The beloved Pontiff, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, led the Catholic Church through a transformative era marked by mercy, inclusion, and relentless advocacy for the world's most vulnerable. His death marks the end of a significant chapter in Church history.
Faithful Gather as Papal Funeral Plans Are Set in Motion
At 7:35 AM that morning, Pope Francis was declared deceased. “With a heart full of sorrow and gratitude,” Cardinal Farrell stated, “we entrust our Holy Father Francis to the loving mercy of God, remembering a life of service, humility, and Gospel-centered mission.”
The Holy See Press Office, represented by Matteo Bruni, confirmed that the Pope’s remains will be moved to St. Peter’s Basilica by Wednesday, April 23, allowing the faithful to pay their last respects. Arrangements will be finalized following the Cardinals’ first General Congregation on Tuesday.
Later that Monday, a solemn ritual was held in the ground floor chapel of Casa Santa Marta at 8 PM, where the Pope’s death was officially certified and his body prepared for burial. Cardinal Farrell led the rite, which concluded with the sealing of both his apartment in the Apostolic Palace and his living quarters at Casa Santa Marta.
By Monday evening, Vatican aides and close associates had begun paying their respects, reflecting the global significance of Francis’ papacy. The Church now enters a mourning period, with preparations beginning for the eventual papal conclave.
Final Days and Legacy of the First Latin American Pope
The late Pontiff’s health had been in steady decline. In February 2025, Pope Francis was admitted to Rome’s Agostino Gemelli Hospital due to persistent bronchitis. Doctors later diagnosed bilateral pneumonia, prompting a prolonged hospital stay that lasted over a month. He returned home in March to recuperate.
Health challenges were not new to Pope Francis. In 1957, he had a portion of his lung removed in Argentina due to a severe infection. Despite recurring respiratory issues, including a cancelled 2023 UAE visit due to flu complications, the Pope remained devoted to his mission until his final days.
In a poignant decision, Pope Francis approved an updated version of the Ordo Exsequiarum Romani Pontificis in 2024. This revised liturgical guide emphasizes the faith in the Resurrection and simplicity over grandeur. Archbishop Diego Ravelli, Master of Apostolic Ceremonies, affirmed that Francis wanted his funeral rites to reflect his identity as a humble servant of Christ, not a worldly dignitary.
A Global Spiritual Leader Remembered
Known as the “Pope of Mercy,” Francis reshaped the papacy with his emphasis on outreach, compassion, and reform. His legacy will be remembered not only in the halls of the Vatican but in the hearts of millions he inspired.
As the Vatican prepares for his final rites, the world pauses to honor a man who lived and led with humility, grace, and an unwavering commitment to the Gospel.
