Pope Francis Passes Away at 88: A Life Devoted to Faith, Humility, and the Marginalized
Pope Francis, the 266th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church, passed away peacefully on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88.
The Vatican confirmed his death with a solemn message, stating, “At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father.”
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis made history as the first pope from the Americas and the first Jesuit to lead the Catholic Church.
His papacy, which began in March 2013, was marked by a tireless commitment to social justice, interfaith dialogue, environmental stewardship, and compassion for the poor and marginalized.
In the weeks leading up to his passing, the Pope was admitted to Rome’s Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital on February 14, 2025, after suffering complications from bronchitis.
By February 18, his condition had progressed to bilateral pneumonia. Despite ongoing medical care, his health steadily declined.
Known for his humility and deeply pastoral approach, Pope Francis frequently battled respiratory illness in recent years, notably canceling a visit to the United Arab Emirates in November 2023 due to lung inflammation.
His final days were spent at his residence in Casa Santa Marta within Vatican City, surrounded by close aides and caregivers.
Throughout his 12-year papacy, Pope Francis championed the values of the Gospel with courage and love, emphasizing mercy, inclusion, and global solidarity.
He became a vocal advocate for migrants, climate action, and the dignity of every human life.
The Vatican, while mourning his loss, expressed deep gratitude for his example as a servant leader, stating: “He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage, and universal love.”
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the Vatican in the coming days, as Catholics around the world pay tribute to a leader who left an indelible mark on the Church and global community.
