On Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, Pope Francis died at the age of 88, leaving the world in mourning. One day after giving his final Urbi et Orbi blessing to the faithful, the Vatican revealed that he passed away quietly at his home, the Domus Sanctae Marthae in Vatican City, at 7:35 AM CEST. One of the most modest and revolutionary popes in contemporary history came to an end with his passing.
Pope Francis?
Early Years and Church Rise
Pope Francis was ordained in 1969 and was made a cardinal in 2001. He was born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina. He brought with him an attitude of service-based humility and academic rigor as a Jesuit.
Becoming the First Pope from Latin America
Bergoglio was elected as the 266th pope in March 2013, following the historic resignation of Pope Benedict XVI. He was the first Jesuit, the first Latin American, and the first non-European pope in more than 1,200 years.
Papal Priorities and Essential Values
During his pontificate, he emphasized interfaith dialogue, environmental conservation, inclusivity, charity, and a call to return to the pastoral foundations of the Church. His actions of washing refugees’ feet, helping the impoverished, and promoting financial transparency at the Vatican garnered international attention.
The Events Leading Up to His Death
Time, Date, and Location of Death
On Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, Pope Francis passed away in the Vatican’s Domus Sanctae Marthae, the guesthouse he had chosen to live in rather than the more lavish Apostolic Palace.
Cause of Death Officially
The Vatican claims that he had heart failure after a stroke. He had been hospitalized for pneumonia in March 2025, and his health had been shaky in recent months.
Prior Health Issues
Francis fought sciatica, had previously had colon surgery in 2021, and was frequently spotted in a wheelchair in his later years. He continued to be involved in the public sphere despite his restrictions.
Pop Francis’s Last Days
Easter Sunday was the final public appearance.
Pope Francis gave a heartfelt Urbi et Orbi speech on Easter Sunday from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, emphasizing global peace, reconciliation, and the promise of resurrection.
Blessings and Messages Before Dying
As a testament to his lifelong support of peace and human dignity, he offered prayers for war-torn countries and migrants drowned at sea in one of his last deeds.
Who was with him at the time?
He was accompanied by Vatican clergy, medical professionals, and close aides. According to reports, one of the last people to join him in prayer was Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin.
The Official Statement of the Vatican
Details of the Announcement
“With sorrow, we announce the death of His Holiness Pope Francis, who departed into the Lord’s embrace on Easter Monday, April 21st, 2025,” the Vatican Press Office said in an official bulletin issued at 9:00 AM CEST. He was a shepherd to everyone, full of love, compassion, and humility.
First Responses from Religious Leaders
Cardinals started sending condolences from all over the world. Francis’ commitment to Christian unity was praised in statements issued by the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople and the Archbishop of Canterbury.
Activation of Vatican Plans and Protocols
The Holy See is currently without a pope as the sede vacante period has officially commenced. The Vatican has lowered its flag to half-staff.
Response to His Death Around the World
Global Leaders’ Messages
The president of the United States, the secretary-general of the United Nations, and European leaders offered their condolences and commended Francis’ commitment to human rights and peace.
Religious Leaders and the Interfaith Reaction
His outreach to other religions and his desire for religious harmony were acknowledged by leaders of the Jewish, Muslim, Hindu, and Buddhist communities.
Memorials from the General Public
With hashtags like #RIPFrancis and #GraciasFrancisco, candlelight vigils, public prayers, and tributes have swept social media from Argentina to Africa.
The Legacy of Pope Francis
Simplicity and humility
Francis was the epitome of the “people’s pope,” from his decision to reside in a cheap guesthouse to his refusal to wear expensive papal regalia.
Focus on the Poor, Refugees, and the Climate
He became a global advocate for migrants, referring to their predicament as the “crucifixion of modern times,” and issued the ground-breaking encyclical Laudato si’, which promoted environmental stewardship.
Issues and Difficulties
He received both praise and criticism for his attitude to internal Church changes, tolerance for LGBTQ+ Catholics, and openness to civil unions, but he never wavered in his commitment to fostering compassion rather than condemnation.
Plans for the Papal Funeral and Burial
The funeral’s date and location
According to the Vatican, Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, dean of the College of Cardinals, will preside over the funeral, which is scheduled for Friday, April 25, 2025, at St. Peter’s Square.
Traditional Papal Rites
In keeping with centuries-old traditions, the funeral will feature a funeral Mass attended by heads of state, religious leaders, and millions of devotees, as well as the Novemdiales, or nine days of sorrow.
Place of Final Rest and His Individual Request
Pope Francis asked to be buried close to the Virgin Mary image, which he often prayed to, in the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. His wish was a reflection of his purpose to be near people and his lifelong devotion to Mary.
What Takes Place at the Vatican Next?
An explanation of Sede Vacante
The phrase “sede vacante” means “the seat is vacant.” In the interim, the daily operations of the Church are managed by the Camerlengo (Chamberlain), who is now Cardinal Kevin Farrell.
The College of Cardinals’ function
Soon, in the Sistine Chapel, in complete secrecy, cardinals under 80 will convene in conclave to choose the next pope.
Timetable for the Next Pope’s Election
The conclave is anticipated to start within 15 to 20 days of Pope Francis’ funeral, however, a specific date has not yet been set.
Conclusion
Pope Francis’s passing brings an end to ten years of profound compassion, change, and humility. Despite his flaws, he was a deeply human pope who guided the Church with compassion and ferocity. As the world mourns his passing, his legacy continues to challenge and inspire billions across faiths and nations.
FAQS
1. When did Pope Francis die?
He died at Vatican City at 7:35 a.m. on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025.
2. What led to the death of Pope Francis?
According to the Vatican, Francis had a stroke and then heart failure.
3. Who will succeed him as pope?
Within the next few weeks, the College of Cardinals will hold a conclave to pick a new pope.
4. Where is Pope Francis going to be laid to rest?
His final resting place will be Rome’s Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore.
5. What was the most important legacy left by Pope Francis?
His legacy includes environmental activism, poverty campaigning, and initiatives to improve the Church’s inclusivity and compassion.
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