The Vatican has officially announced the passing of Pope Francis, who died peacefully at the age of 88 on April 21, 2025, just one day after Easter Sunday.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, he made history in 2013 as the first pope from Latin America and the first Jesuit pope. His papacy was marked by compassion, humility, and a deep commitment to serving the poor and marginalized.
His passing was officially announced at 9:45 a.m. (GMT+2) by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber:
“Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. [At 7:35 a.m.], 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.”
Pope Francis had been hospitalized for 38 days due to complications from bronchitis, which progressed to double pneumonia. At present, the Vatican has not yet released details on his funeral arrangements.
A Life of Devotion and Reform
Ordained a priest in 1969, Bergoglio became Archbishop of Buenos Aires in 1998 and was elevated to Cardinal in 2001. He chose the name Francis to honor St. Francis of Assisi, known for his humility, love of nature, and care for the poor—values that shaped the tone and mission of his papacy.
As pope, he led six major Synods of Bishops, addressing pressing issues such as the Church’s missionary role, vocational discernment for youth, and its response to modern social challenges. His landmark encyclical, Laudato Si’, called for global environmental responsibility and resonated beyond religious circles.
A Pope for the People
In 2015, Pope Francis made history by becoming the first pope to address a joint session of the U.S. Congress. In that momentous speech, he told lawmakers:
“Each son or daughter of a given country has a mission, a personal and social responsibility. Your own responsibility as members of Congress is to enable this country, by your legislative activity, to grow as a nation. You are the face of its people, their representatives.”
He met with key American Catholic leaders, including then-Vice President Joe Biden and Speaker John Boehner, leaving a powerful impression as both a spiritual and moral leader.
🙏 Let us remember him for his unwavering faith and leadership that touched millions around the world.
Rest in peace, Holy Father. 🕯️💔