Vatican City, April 14, 2025 — Pope Francis, the first Latin American leader of the Roman Catholic Church and a globally revered figure known for his progressive stance on faith, compassion, and social justice, passed away early Monday morning at the age of 88, the Vatican confirmed.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell, in a solemn video statement released on the Vatican’s official Telegram channel, announced:
“This morning at 7:35 am (0535 GMT), the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father.”
The pontiff’s death marks the end of an era defined by humility, reform, and outspoken advocacy on issues such as climate change, interfaith dialogue, and the plight of the poor and displaced.
A Final Message of Peace
Just a day before his passing, Pope Francis delivered what would be his final public message during the Easter Sunday celebrations at St. Peter’s Basilica. Despite visible signs of frailty, he appeared briefly to offer greetings to the gathered crowd of over 35,000 worshippers. He later entrusted the reading of his “Urbi et Orbi” (“To the City and the World”) benediction to an aide.
In the prepared speech, Francis passionately appealed for freedom of religion, thought, and expression, emphasizing,
“There can be no peace without freedom of religion, freedom of thought, freedom of expression, and respect for the views of others.”
The message also condemned the rise of anti-Semitism and called attention to the “dramatic and deplorable” humanitarian crisis in Gaza, showcasing his unwavering concern for global conflicts and minority rights.
A Papacy of Firsts
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Francis became the 266th Pope of the Roman Catholic Church on March 13, 2013, succeeding Pope Benedict XVI. He was the first Jesuit Pope, the first from the Americas, and the first non-European pontiff in more than 1,200 years.
Over his 12-year papacy, Francis gained admiration for breaking with tradition — embracing the poor, washing the feet of prisoners, reforming Vatican bureaucracy, and calling for inclusion within the Church. His papacy emphasized mercy over judgment and was often marked by his simple lifestyle and strong connection with everyday people.
What Lies Ahead
Following the Pope’s death, the Vatican will initiate the traditional mourning process and convene the College of Cardinals to elect a new successor in the coming weeks. Until then, Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin is expected to handle papal responsibilities in the interim.
As tributes pour in from world leaders and religious communities across the globe, Pope Francis will be remembered not only as a spiritual shepherd but also as a beacon of compassion and moral clarity in an increasingly divided world.
“The measure of greatness is not how one rules, but how one serves,” he once said — a sentiment that defined his legacy until his very last breath.
