Pope Francis, the first Latin American and Jesuit pope in the history of the Roman Catholic Church, died on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88 in his residence at Casa Santa Marta, Vatican City. His death was officially announced at 7:35 a.m. local time by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, and confirmed by the Vatican.

The cause of death was a stroke, followed by a coma and irreversible cardiocirculatory collapse, after a long struggle with double pneumonia and other health complications. Pope Francis had been hospitalized in February 2025 due to bronchitis, which developed into bilateral pneumonia. Despite a 38-day hospital stay, he continued to fulfill his papal duties and made his final public appearance on Easter Sunday, greeting crowds in St. Peter’s Square.

Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis was elected on March 13, 2013, following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI. He was widely recognized for his humility, reformist vision, and dedication to outreach for the poor, refugees, and marginalized communities. His papacy was marked by a focus on environmental stewardship, economic equity, and a more inclusive approach within the Church. He famously asked, “Who am I to judge?” regarding LGBTQ+ issues, signaling a new openness in the Vatican.

The passing of Pope Francis has triggered a period of global mourning and reflection, with tributes pouring in from world leaders, religious figures, and millions of faithful. The Vatican has announced that his body will be transferred to St. Peter’s Basilica for public veneration, and preparations for the papal funeral and the next conclave are underway.

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