Pope Francis died on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88 at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta. At 9:45 AM local time, Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, solemnly announced the death of Pope Francis from the Casa Santa Marta.
“Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis,” said the Cardinal. “At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father.”
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina, was 88. He passed away following complications from a prolonged respiratory illness. The Holy Father had been admitted to the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital on Friday, February 14, 2025, after suffering from bronchitis. His condition worsened, leading to a diagnosis of bilateral pneumonia on February 18. After 38 days in the hospital, the Pope returned to the Casa Santa Marta to continue his recovery, where he later died.
Francis had a long history of respiratory illness, beginning with the removal of part of his lung in his early 20s due to a severe infection. In recent years, he frequently battled similar issues, including the cancellation of his 2023 visit to the UAE due to influenza and lung inflammation.
A humble servant of the Church, Pope Francis was known globally for his deep compassion, progressive outlook, and unwavering commitment to the poor and marginalized. His papacy was marked by a call to mercy, justice, and care for creation.
In April 2024, he personally approved a revised edition of the Ordo Exsequiarum Romani Pontificis, which will guide his funeral liturgy. The new funeral rite, according to Archbishop Diego Ravelli, will reflect Pope Francis’ desire for simplicity and faith in the resurrection.
“The renewed rite,” said Archbishop Ravelli, “seeks to emphasise even more that the funeral of the Roman Pontiff is that of a pastor and disciple of Christ and not of a powerful person of this world.”
Details about the funeral date and public mourning are expected to be announced shortly.
