Pope Francis, the first Latin American pontiff and head of the Catholic Church, passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88.
The Vatican confirmed his death following a prolonged hospitalization due to respiratory complications, including double pneumonia.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Vatican camerlengo, announced the Pope’s passing at 7:35 a.m. local time on Easter Monday, praising Francis for his dedication to Gospel values, inclusive love, and attention to the marginalized.
“Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of His Church. He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage, and universal love, especially in favor of the poorest and most marginalized. With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite merciful love of the One and Triune God.”
