Pope Francis Passes Away at 88: Vatican Confirms
Pope Francis, the leader of the Roman Catholic Church, has died. According to Vatican News, the Holy Father passed away on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, after battling double pneumonia for more than a month. His death was officially confirmed by the Vatican in a statement posted on social media.
The Pope died at the age of 88 in his Vatican residence, Casa Santa Marta. Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, shared the news with the public.
He announced, “Dear brothers and sisters, it is with a heavy heart that I inform you of the death of our Holy Father, Francis.
This morning, at 7:35 a.m., the Bishop of Rome, Pope Francis, returned to the house of the Father.”
Cardinal Farrell added, “We thank God for his life, his faith, and the example he gave us as a true follower of Jesus Christ. We now entrust his soul to the boundless and loving mercy of the Holy Trinity.”
The Pope’s health had been fragile for some time. He was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on February 14 with bronchitis, but his condition worsened and developed into double pneumonia.
During his hospital stay, he experienced several complications, including severe breathing difficulties. Doctors had to perform bronchoscopies to clear mucus from his lungs, and he was placed on non-invasive mechanical ventilation to support his breathing.
After five weeks in the hospital, he was discharged on March 23. Upon release, he appeared from a hospital window to give a blessing to the public, which became his first appearance in weeks. Despite his health struggles, he continued to carry out some papal duties.
Just one day before his passing, on Sunday, he held a meeting with U.S. Vice President JD Vance — his first major meeting since being discharged.
Pope Francis was born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in 1936. He made history in 2013 when he became the first Jesuit and the first Latin American to be elected Pope. Over the years, he became known worldwide for his modest lifestyle, gentle nature, and reformist agenda.
He had long suffered from respiratory problems stemming from a serious lung infection he had as a teenager, which led to part of one lung being surgically removed.
Throughout his papacy, these respiratory issues continued to trouble him, leading to multiple hospital visits. In 2023, he was hospitalized with bronchitis, and later that year underwent surgery for a hernia.
Apart from his lung issues, the Pope also faced chronic pain in his right knee caused by osteoarthritis. This condition often forced him to use a wheelchair or walking stick.
Despite medical advice, he chose not to have surgery and instead relied on physical therapy and medication for relief.
In 2021, Pope Francis underwent surgery to remove part of his colon due to diverticulitis — an inflammation that causes digestive problems and pain. Even after that, he continued to carry out his responsibilities with dedication.
Throughout his time as Pope, he championed social causes such as justice for the poor, protection of the environment, and inclusion within the Church.
He was outspoken about the global refugee crisis, condemned wealth inequality, and urged the Church to welcome people from all walks of life, including the LGBTQ+ community.
Though admired by many for his progressive thinking and humility, his papacy was not without controversy.
He faced strong opposition from within the Church, particularly from conservative leaders who resisted changes in Church doctrine.
Nonetheless, Pope Francis remained focused on his mission of compassion, unity, and reform. His passing marks the end of an era for the Catholic Church and the world.
Millions across the globe are mourning the death of a leader who sought to bring faith closer to the people, and who dedicated his life to peace, justice, and service to others.
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