Pope Francis passed away on Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. He died at 7:35 a.m. CEST in his residence at the Domus Sanctae Marthae in Vatican City. The Vatican announced his death two hours later, with Cardinal Kevin Farrell delivering the official statement. While the exact cause has not been officially confirmed, reports suggest he may have suffered a stroke following a recent hospitalization for double pneumonia .
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis made history in 2013 as the first Latin American, Jesuit, and non-European pope in over a millennium. His 12-year papacy was marked by humility, a focus on the marginalized, and advocacy for environmental stewardship. He was also known for his efforts to modernize the Church and promote interfaith dialogue .
His final public appearance was on Easter Sunday, April 20, when he delivered the traditional Urbi et Orbi blessing from St. Peter’s Basilica. Despite his frailty, he also met privately with U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance that day .
In accordance with his wishes, Pope Francis will be buried at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome, making him the first pope in over a century to be interred outside the Vatican. His body will lie in state at St. Peter’s Basilica starting Wednesday, allowing the faithful to pay their respects .
The Vatican has initiated the traditional mourning period, and preparations are underway for the papal conclave to elect his successor. According to Church law, the conclave is expected to begin between May 6 and May 11, 2025, but it may commence earlier if all cardinal electors have arrived in Rome .
Global tributes have poured in, with leaders such as King Charles III, the Dalai Lama, and U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres honoring his legacy of compassion and commitment to social justice .
Last modified: April 21, 2025
