Vatican City, April 21, 2025 – Pope Francis has died. The 88-year-old pontiff passed away in the early hours of Easter Monday at his residence, the Casa Santa Marta in the Vatican. The news of his death was announced at 7:35 a.m. by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Camerlengo, in a deeply moving live address. Just the day before, a visibly frail Francis had delivered the traditional Easter blessing "Urbi et Orbi" at St. Peter's Square — a final public appearance that will now be remembered as his farewell.
A Pope of Firsts
Jorge Mario Bergoglio was born on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires. As the first Latin American, the first Jesuit, and the first pope to take the name Francis, he began his pontificate on March 13, 2013. His election was seen around the world as a signal of renewal, pointing toward a Church more deeply committed to the poor, the marginalized, and the pressing questions of the age. Francis was a pope of reform, without seeking to be a revolutionary. His humility, his clear moral compass, and his commitment to social justice made him a moral compass for many believers, and non-believers alike.
Champion of Climate Protection and Peace
With his environmental encyclical Laudato si', Francis set new standards for the Church's engagement with the climate crisis. He was a voice for the vulnerable, tirelessly advocating for refugees, victims of violence, and war, while calling for "a peace grounded in justice." He did not shy away from confrontation within the Church either, whether in addressing abuse scandals, questions about the role of women, or dialogue with other religions. Francis always sought conversation, never division.
Pope Francis: A Quiet Farewell
His health had visibly declined in recent years. He suffered repeatedly from respiratory ailments, most recently from a severe bout of pneumonia. Even so, Francis insisted on making public appearances in his final days. His death, one day after Easter Mass, marks the end of a pontificate spanning more than twelve years. As he had announced during his lifetime, Francis wished for a simple burial. The traditional three coffins will not be used. He will be laid to rest in a plain wooden coffin — a reflection of the simplicity he lived by.
Sede Vacante: A Time Without a Reigning Pope
With his death, the sede vacante now begins, the period without a reigning pope. In the coming days, the College of Cardinals will convene to prepare the conclave and the election of a successor. The world mourns a pope who built bridges, offered hope, and reshaped the papacy with warmth and humanity.