Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, passed away on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. He died at 7:35 AM CEST at his residence in the Domus Sanctae Marthae, Vatican City. The Vatican confirmed that the cause of death was a stroke followed by irreversible cardiac arrest. His passing came after a recent hospitalization for double pneumonia and other health complications.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, officially announced the Pope’s death in a televised statement from the chapel of Casa Santa Marta. Following tradition, the Vatican initiated the “sede vacante” period, during which the papal seat remains vacant until a new pope is elected. Preparations are underway for a conclave of 135 cardinal electors, expected to convene between May 6 and May 11, 2025, to select the next pontiff.
Pope Francis was the first Jesuit and the first Latin American to lead the Catholic Church, having been elected in 2013 after Pope Benedict XVI’s resignation. His papacy was marked by efforts to reform the Church, promote social justice, and advocate for marginalized communities. He was known for his humility and emphasis on compassion, often choosing simplicity over traditional papal grandeur.
In accordance with his wishes, Pope Francis will be buried at the Basilica of Saint Mary Major in Rome. His funeral is scheduled for Saturday, April 26, 2025, and is expected to be attended by numerous world leaders and dignitaries.