Pope Francis, the first Latin American and Jesuit pontiff, passed away on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025. He was 88 years old. He died peacefully at 7:35 a.m. local time in his residence at the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta. His death followed a prolonged illness that included a bout of double pneumonia earlier this year.
A Papacy Marked by Humility and Advocacy
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis was elected in 2013 as the 266th pope of the Roman Catholic Church. His tenure was characterized by a commitment to humility, social justice, and outreach to marginalized communities. He was known for his efforts to modernize the Church, promote interfaith dialogue, and address global issues such as poverty and climate change.
Global Tributes and Mourning
Leaders and faithful worldwide have expressed their condolences and paid tribute to Pope Francis’s legacy. U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance, who met with the pope shortly before his death, shared his sorrow, stating, “My heart goes out to the millions of Christians all over the world who loved him.” European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen remarked, “He inspired millions, far beyond the Catholic Church, with his humility and love so pure for the less fortunate.”
Former President Barack Obama honored Pope Francis as “the rare leader who made us want to be better people.” He remarked that through humble acts—like embracing the sick, ministering to the homeless, and washing the feet of young prisoners—Pope Francis reminded us of our shared moral obligations to one another.
In his home country of Argentina, President Javier Milei declared three days of national mourning to honor the late pontiff.
Funeral Arrangements and Succession
The Vatican has announced that Pope Francis’s funeral will take place later this week. Public viewings are scheduled in St. Peter’s Basilica. In accordance with his wishes, he will be buried in the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome. This makes him the first pope to be interred outside the Vatican since Pope Leo XIII in 1903.
Following his death, the Church enters a period known as “sede vacante” (the seat being vacant), during which the College of Cardinals will convene a conclave to elect the next pope. This process is expected to begin between May 6 and May 11, 2025.
Pope Francis’s passing marks the end of a transformative era for the Catholic Church. He leaves behind a legacy of compassion, inclusivity, and a call for global solidarity.
🙏 Our hearts go out to the millions of Catholics and admirers around the world mourning the loss of Pope Francis. His legacy of compassion, humility, and unwavering commitment to justice will live on in the hearts of many.
💬 How has Pope Francis impacted your faith, values, or worldview? Share your thoughts and tributes in the comments below.
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