Pope Francis: News, Speeches & Death - [Latest Updates]
What were the final moments of a pontiff who shaped the modern world? Pope Francis, a figure of global significance, concluded his earthly journey at the age of 88, leaving behind a legacy of profound impact, and his final days were marked by poignant gestures and pronouncements that continue to resonate across the globe.
The details surrounding the final hours of Pope Francis began to emerge in the days following his passing, offering glimpses into the life of a man who had become synonymous with a more inclusive and compassionate vision of the Catholic Church. His last public appearance, on Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025, in Vatican City, became a focal point for reflection. Despite not delivering his speech in person, a brief greeting to the faithful, a simple Brothers and sisters, underscored the fragility of his condition, yet also the enduring strength of his connection with the world. This Easter Sunday, as tradition dictated, the Urbi et Orbi (to the city and to the world) message was delivered at St. Peter's Square. However, this year, it was a moment tinged with both reverence and a palpable sense of farewell.
| Bio Data | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jorge Mario Bergoglio |
| Born | December 17, 1936, Buenos Aires, Argentina |
| Died | April 21, 2025 (aged 88) |
| Nationality | Argentinian (born), Vatican City citizen (as Pope) |
| Education | Master's Degree in Chemistry |
| Religious Life | Entered the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) in 1958 |
| Ordained Priest | December 13, 1969 |
| Ordained Bishop | June 27, 1992 |
| Created Cardinal | February 21, 2001 |
| Elected Pope | March 13, 2013 |
| Predecessor | Benedict XVI |
| Motto | Miserando atque eligendo (Having mercy, he called him) |
| Key Initiatives | Emphasis on mercy, care for the poor, environmental protection, and interfaith dialogue |
| Notable Writings | Evangelii Gaudium (The Joy of the Gospel), Laudato si' (On Care for Our Common Home), Fratelli Tutti (On Fraternity and Social Friendship) |
| Interests | Football (soccer), tango, literature |
| Legacy | A pontificate marked by reforms, a focus on inclusivity, and engagement with contemporary issues |
| Reference | Vatican Official Website |
The atmosphere surrounding the Vatican on that Easter Sunday, 2025, was captured in images and reports from various news outlets. Images of the Pope gesturing from the balcony, the same place he had greeted the world on numerous occasions, were circulated worldwide. The delivery of the "Urbi et Orbi" message, though not directly from him, was followed with particular attention. The Vatican's decision to make his speeches available, through a podcast, offered a unique opportunity for reflection and an appreciation for his message even when he was not well enough to deliver them himself. These speeches, originally recorded in their native languages, are protected by the Dicastery for Communication. Their pastoral character and content were a testament to the impact of Pope Francis' message.
Before his death, on the 20th of April, Pope Francis delivered his final public speech. The words he delivered addressed pressing global issues. According to the reports, His final message expressed sympathy for the Palestinian people and called for an end to the war. These statements, made in the context of escalating global conflicts, provided further insight into his worldview. It underscored his persistent commitment to peace, justice, and the protection of the vulnerable. This address, delivered less than twenty-four hours before his passing, was a strong indicator of his priorities and his persistent vision for a more just world.
The news of Pope Francis' death, confirmed by the Vatican on April 21, 2025, sent shockwaves across the globe. It was confirmed in a statement that released by the Vatican. The passing was announced officially in the Vatican City on April 22, 2025. Cardinals and officials, including Cardinal Camerlengo Kevin Joseph Farrell, Cardinal Pietro Parolin (Vatican Secretary of State), Cardinal Edgar Pea Parra (Vatican Substitute for the Secretariat of State), and Archbishop Diego Giovanni Ravelli (Vatican Master of Ceremonies), were involved in the formal announcement. The announcement was marked by a solemnity reflecting the gravity of the occasion.
His final public act, a blessing of the entire world delivered on Easter Sunday from the loggia of St. Peter's Basilica, was a fitting culmination of his papacy. The blessing, delivered from the same location where he often addressed the world, served as a moment of profound grace and remembrance. The same balcony from which he had delivered countless messages of hope and solidarity became a platform for his final act of faith. News from the CNA newsroom on April 20, 2025, at 06:48 am indicated that his final blessing and farewell greetings was a symbol of his dedication to the people.
The pontiffs legacy can be found in his actions and words. It can be traced in the messages he delivered during the ordinary weekly general audience, the ones held on Wednesday, March 13, 2024, in St. Peters Square. He also participated in dialogues with world leaders, addressing issues of common concern. One such gathering was the first global summit on childrens rights held in the Vatican, where he spoke of the need for protection of children who are victims of conflict, poverty, migration, and the throwaway culture, including abortion and neglect. During a meeting on September 13, the Pope reiterated his vision for inclusivity, noting that "all religions are a path to reach God," and also pointed out that "But God is God for everyone."
In a rare interview, conducted with Norah O'Donnell, the Pope spoke on global conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, migrants in the U.S., sexual abuse in the church, and other important issues. This demonstrates his willingness to engage with the pressing issues of the day, highlighting his engagement with contemporary challenges.
Pope Francis' tenure was characterized by a series of significant actions and statements. These include his address at the United Nations Sustainable Development Summit in 2015 at the United Nations Headquarters in Manhattan, New York. His addresses to the world's ambassadors to the Vatican, and his willingness to engage with the leaders of various nations during his meetings. His meeting with Obama, Biden, and Trump, as well as his last public address, underscored the impact of his commitment and message in the world.
Even in the final months of his life, Pope Francis continued to make his presence known. In a memoir, he claimed that he had many projects to bring to fruition, thereby, pointing out the importance and necessity of his leadership. His dedication towards service and the issues of the present day highlighted his continued commitment towards them.
The tributes that followed Pope Francis's passing were deeply emotional. People from all walks of life offered their condolences and memories. A New York family, for example, described paying their respects, echoing the sentiments of many. His final public address was praised on social media for its "beautifully poetic" nature, and for his capacity to move and inspire people to live a meaningful life. His passing was a somber moment for the entire world.
