Breaking: Pope Francis Dies At 88 - Details & Reactions
Could the passing of a pontiff, especially one as globally recognized as Pope Francis, truly signal the end of an era? On April 21, 2025, the world witnessed the departure of a spiritual leader whose pontificate was defined by its profound commitment to humility, outreach, and a willingness to challenge established norms.
On Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at 07:35 CEST (UTC+02:00), the world mourned the death of Pope Francis. The pontiff, aged 88, breathed his last at the Domus Sanctae Marthae, his papal residence within Vatican City. Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Camerlengo, delivered the announcement via Vatican Media, with a video statement released two hours after the passing, at 09:45. The day, already significant for being Easter Monday, the day after Easter, became a day of profound reflection and remembrance.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jorge Mario Bergoglio |
| Born | December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina |
| Died | April 21, 2025, in Vatican City |
| Age at Death | 88 years old |
| Papal Name | Pope Francis |
| Pontificate Began | March 13, 2013 |
| Previous Positions | Archbishop of Buenos Aires |
| Notable Actions and Policies | Advocate for the poor, environmental concerns, reform of the Vatican, and outreach to various faiths. Supported worldwide abolition of the death penalty. |
| Cause of Death | Stroke leading to heart failure |
| Final Public Appearance | Easter Sunday blessing from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica |
| Reference | Vatican Official Website |
The Holy See officially released the death certificate on Monday evening, providing details on the cause of death, which was confirmed as a stroke that resulted in heart failure. It was known that the pontiff had been dealing with several health challenges in recent years, including pneumonia, diabetes, hypertension, and chronic lung issues, which undoubtedly impacted his overall well-being. His passing followed a period of hospitalization for double pneumonia, with his return to the Domus Sanctae Marthae marking the final chapter of his life.
In April 2024, Pope Francis had approved an updated edition of the liturgical book for papal funeral rites. This updated version of the "Ordo Exsequiarum Romani Pontificis" introduces new elements, including specific guidelines for handling the Pope's mortal remains after death. This proactive step by the late Pope indicates his awareness of his own mortality and a desire to ensure the continuity of traditions.
The timing of the announcement, two hours after the reported time of death, reflected the established protocols and the need for meticulous verification. The video released by Vatican Media showed the moment of the announcement by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Vatican Camerlengo. The Camerlengo, or chamberlain, plays a crucial role in the transition of power within the Catholic Church.
The death of Pope Francis has initiated a complex process of mourning and transition. The death set off grief and mourning around the world along with a complex process to find a successor. The election of a new pope is scheduled to take place between 15 and 20 days after the Pope's death. The College of Cardinals will convene in the Sistine Chapel to conduct the Conclave, a highly secretive process to elect the new pope. The Vatican announced Pope Francis's funeral will be held on Saturday morning at 10 a.m. in St. Peter's Basilica.
In his final days, Pope Francis was reported to be taking steps to protect his legacy, and as is traditional, prayers were offered for his soul: "For pope francis, may he be numbered among gods elect and know the splendor of heaven, we pray to the lord. For gods peace upon the spirit of francis, our pope; May he share in the eternal fellowship of those who, faithful to the teachings of the apostles, dwell in the heavenly kingdom, we pray to the lord."
The passing of Pope Francis, who committed the catholic church to support worldwide abolition of the death penalty, marked a significant moment in history. Francis was last seen Sunday when he gave the traditional Easter blessing from the balcony of st. Peter's Basilica. His final public appearance was a testament to his dedication to the faithful.
The death of Pope Francis at 7:35 a.m. on Monday at his residence in the Vatican, was followed by a period of reflection. His tenure, marked by a focus on the marginalized and a willingness to engage with people of diverse backgrounds and faiths, garnered worldwide attention.
The late pontiffs passing has prompted discussion on the potential location of his burial. If buried in Santa Maria Maggiore, Pope Francis would be the first pope in a century to be buried outside the Vatican. This decision would be a testament to his character, it would highlight his commitment to stepping away from the norms.
His death at the age of 88, after years of leading the Catholic Church, comes after the catholic leader experienced a number of health issues in recent years. The timing of his death, on Easter Monday, underscores the somber mood with which the Church enters into the next chapter.
