Vatican City – April 21, 2025
On a solemn Easter Monday morning, the Catholic Church and the world received heartbreaking news: Pope Francis, the 266th pope and beloved spiritual leader of over a billion Catholics, has passed away. He died peacefully at 7:35 AM in his residence at Casa Santa Marta, Vatican City. He was 88 years old.
At 9:45 AM, standing before a quiet and grieving crowd, Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, delivered the official announcement:
“Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of His Church. He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage, and universal love, especially in favor of the poorest and most marginalized. With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite merciful love of the One and Triune God.”
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis made history as the first Latin American pope, the first Jesuit pope, and the first to bear the name “Francis,” reflecting his deep admiration for Saint Francis of Assisi and a life of simplicity, humility, and service.
His papacy, beginning in March 2013, was defined by outreach to the poor, bold stances on climate justice, interfaith dialogue, and a commitment to Church reform. He became a symbol of compassion and hope in a rapidly changing and often divided world.
Millions around the globe now join in prayer, mourning a man who brought warmth to the papal office, who embraced the sick and downtrodden, and who never hesitated to speak out on behalf of the voiceless.
As preparations begin for his funeral and the nine days of mourning (novemdiales), the Church reflects not only on the end of a remarkable pontificate but on a legacy of mercy, courage, and boundless love.
May the soul of Pope Francis rest in eternal peace.
His smile, his voice, and his example will never be forgotten.
