Pope Francis, aged 88, passed away on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025. Reflect on his impactful papacy, his health struggles, and what’s next for the Vatican.
In the quiet morning hours of Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, the world lost a spiritual icon. Pope Francis, known for his compassion, humility, and relentless advocacy for the marginalized, passed away at age 88 in his Vatican residence, Casa Santa Marta. The Vatican confirmed his death occurred at 7:35 AM local time.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, delivered the somber announcement with reverence:
“With deep sorrow, I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis… He taught us to live the Gospel with courage and universal love, especially for the poor and marginalized.”
The Catholic Church now enters a moment of mourning and transition, as millions reflect on a papacy that redefined modern spiritual leadership.
From Buenos Aires to the Vatican: A Life of Service
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, the future pope was marked by a life of resilience. In his early 20s, he underwent surgery to remove a portion of his lung due to a severe respiratory infection. Despite this, he would go on to serve as Archbishop of Buenos Aires and later become the first Jesuit and the first Latin American pope.
Pope Francis was elected in March 2013 following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI. He chose the name “Francis” in honor of St. Francis of Assisi, signaling his commitment to humility, peace, and care for creation—values that would define his papacy.
Health Struggles in the Final Years
The last few years of Pope Francis’ life were marked by mounting health concerns. In February 2025, he was hospitalized with bronchitis, which later developed into bilateral pneumonia. After nearly six weeks at Rome’s Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital, he returned to Casa Santa Marta to continue recovery, but never fully regained his strength.
This wasn’t the first time his respiratory health affected his duties. In November 2023, he canceled a visit to the UAE due to flu and lung inflammation. Despite these setbacks, Francis continued working on Church reforms and liturgical updates until his final weeks.
A Simplified Goodbye: Funeral Details and Vatican Protocol
At 8:00 PM Monday night, the traditional rites for certifying death and placing the body into the coffin were performed in the chapel at Casa Santa Marta. Cardinal Farrell validated the declaration of death, as seals were placed on the papal apartments both in the Apostolic Palace and Casa Santa Marta.
The Holy See Press Office confirmed that Pope Francis’ body would be moved to St. Peter’s Basilica by Wednesday, April 23, allowing the faithful to offer prayers and pay final respects.
In 2024, Pope Francis had approved an updated version of the Ordo Exsequiarum Romani Pontificis, which outlines the funeral rites for a pontiff. The revised version moves away from grandeur and focuses instead on a humble, faith-centered farewell. He had personally requested a simplified funeral, emphasizing his identity not as a global figurehead, but as a servant of Christ.
“The renewed rite reflects the funeral of a pastor and disciple of Christ, not a worldly monarch,” said Archbishop Diego Ravelli, the Vatican’s Master of Apostolic Ceremonies.
Legacy of Reform, Unity, and Advocacy
Pope Francis’ influence extended far beyond Vatican walls. His tenure was defined by bold reforms, progressive stances on climate change, and relentless outreach to the poor and oppressed. He championed inclusivity within the Church, opening conversations about LGBTQ+ Catholics, divorce, and interfaith cooperation.
Some of his hallmark initiatives included:
Climate Leadership: The 2015 encyclical Laudato Si’ challenged world leaders on environmental stewardship.
Financial Transparency: He restructured the Vatican’s financial system, aiming to eliminate corruption.
Social Justice: He emphasized the Church’s role in addressing economic inequality, migration, and global conflict.
Even amidst criticism from traditionalist circles, Francis remained steadfast in his belief that the Church must evolve to meet the spiritual and social needs of modern humanity.
What Happens Next: The Road to the Conclave
The College of Cardinals will hold its first General Congregation on Tuesday, April 22. In the coming days, they will determine the date of Pope Francis’ funeral and begin preparations for the next papal conclave—a process steeped in centuries-old tradition.
Vatican watchers expect the conclave to begin within 15 to 20 days, allowing cardinals from around the world to travel to Rome and participate. The Sistine Chapel will once again be at the center of global attention, as the red-robed electors gather to choose the 267th successor of St. Peter.
Speculation is already swirling around who might follow in Francis’ footsteps—will the next pope carry forward his progressive vision, or steer the Church in a more traditional direction?
Final Reflections: A Pope for the People
Pope Francis leaves behind a transformative legacy. He wasn’t just a spiritual leader; he was a global moral compass in an age of division. With humility at the heart of his message, he reminded the world that faith must be lived through action, compassion, and service.
His passing marks the end of a remarkable chapter in Catholic history—but the seeds he planted in hearts across continents will continue to grow. As millions mourn, they also celebrate the life of a man who chose simplicity over status and love over judgment.
