Pope Francis Dies at 88

Pope Francis, the 266th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church and the first from Latin America, passed away on Monday, April 21, 2025, at 7:35 a.m. in his residence at Casa Santa Marta in Vatican City.

He was 88 years old. Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Vatican camerlengo, announced his death, stating, "At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of his Church"

A Papacy Marked by Compassion and Reform

Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on December 17, 1936, Pope Francis was elected in March 2013 following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI. His papacy was characterized by a focus on humility, social justice, and outreach to the marginalized. He chose the name Francis in honor of St. Francis of Assisi, reflecting his commitment to the poor and to environmental stewardship.​

Pope Francis was known for his efforts to reform the Vatican bureaucracy, promote interfaith dialogue, and address issues such as climate change and economic inequality. He also emphasized the importance of mercy and compassion in the Church's approach to moral and social issues.​

Health Challenges in Later Years

In recent years, Pope Francis faced several health challenges. In February 2025, he was hospitalized for bronchitis, which progressed to bilateral pneumonia. He underwent blood transfusions due to low platelet levels and was later reported to have mild kidney failure. Despite these health issues, he continued to fulfill his papal duties, including delivering the Easter Sunday "Urbi et Orbi" blessing on April 20, 2025.​

A Legacy of Simplicity and Service

Pope Francis was known for his simple lifestyle and emphasis on pastoral care. He resided in the Vatican guesthouse rather than the traditional papal apartments and often emphasized the need for the Church to be a "field hospital" for the wounded. In November 2024, he modified papal funeral rites to reflect his preference for simplicity, requesting a burial in a simple wooden casket and choosing to be interred at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome, rather than in the Vatican

The Path Forward

With the passing of Pope Francis, the Catholic Church enters a period of mourning and transition. The College of Cardinals will convene to begin the process of selecting a new pope. As the Church reflects on the legacy of Pope Francis, his emphasis on humility, compassion, and social justice will continue to influence its direction in the years to come.​