Pope Francis passed away on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at age 88. The Vatican confirmed his peaceful passing at Casa Santa Marta, his residence.
Pope Francis, the 266th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church, died peacefully on April 21, 2025, at Casa Santa Marta, the Vatican residence he chose over the more opulent Apostolic Palace. He was 88 years old.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis became the first Pope from Latin America and the first Jesuit to hold the position. His papacy began in March 2013, following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI.
Throughout his life, Pope Francis championed the causes of social justice, humility, and interfaith dialogue. He focused on issues such as climate change, income inequality, and the refugee crisis, and was known for rejecting traditional luxuries in favor of a modest lifestyle.
According to Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the official announcement came at 9:45 AM, stating that the Pope passed away at 7:35 AM that morning after a long battle with respiratory illness.
In his final days, Pope Francis had requested a simple funeral that reflected his belief in the Resurrection and the role of the Pope as a servant of Christ.