Pope Francis, the 266th pontiff of the Catholic Church, died peacefully on Monday, April 21, 2025, at 7:35 a.m. Rome time at the Casa Santa Marta residence in the Vatican. He was 88 years old.
Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera reports that the Holy Father woke up as usual at 6:00 a.m. when his alarm went off, but soon after began to feel unwell. He reportedly suffered a stroke at 7:00 a.m. and died 35 minutes later. La Repubblica and La Stampa both reported that the cause of death was likely a cerebral hemorrhage.
The Holy See Press Office officially confirmed his death shortly afterward. Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, made the formal announcement:
“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 God, One and Triune.”
The pontiff had been battling significant health issues in recent months, including a life-threatening double pneumonia. After a 38-day hospital stay, he was discharged on March 23 under what doctors called “protected discharge,” with strict orders for rest. Despite these warnings, Pope Francis insisted on fulfilling his Easter duties and appeared publicly on Easter Sunday, April 20, in St. Peter’s Square.
In what would become his final public appearance, the Pope greeted a crowd of over 35,000 faithful. Though visibly frail and seated in a wheelchair, he smiled and waved to the people as his vehicle made its way through the square. He opened the Urbi et Orbi message with a joyful greeting:
“Brothers and sisters, Happy Easter.” The rest of the address was read by an aide due to his weakened condition.
His appearance without the nasal cannula—used frequently in recent months to supply oxygen—led many to believe he was on the mend. However, the Pope’s determination to continue his mission, even against medical advice, spoke volumes about his character.
“He was told to cut back his schedule,” reports Corriere della Sera, “but the pontiff was determined to continue doing God’s work.”
The day before his death, he met briefly with U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance. “The meeting, which lasted a few minutes, gave the opportunity to exchange greetings on Easter Sunday,” the Vatican said. The Pope gifted Vance three large chocolate Easter eggs for his children and offered a warm smile despite his visible fatigue.
Pope Francis’ death has brought an outpouring of grief and gratitude from around the world.
“We are saying goodbye to a great man and a great shepherd… I had the privilege of enjoying his friendship, his counsel, and his teachings, which never failed me, not even in times of trial and suffering.”
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni
King Charles III remembered the pontiff’s global impact, stating:
“Through his work and care for both people and planet, he profoundly touched the lives of so many.”
The bells of Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris rang 88 times in his honor, marking each year of his life.
Following tradition, Pope Francis’ body will lie in state in St. Peter’s Basilica for three days beginning Wednesday, allowing the faithful to pay their respects. He will be buried at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome.
The conclave to elect the next pope will begin after a nine-day period of mourning and will not take place before 15 days have passed. Of the 252 living cardinals, 138 are under the age of 80 and eligible to vote.
As the Church mourns the loss of a man who championed the poor, the marginalized, and the environment, it also looks to the future. The College of Cardinals—of whom approximately 80% were appointed by Francis—will soon gather in the Sistine Chapel to elect the 267th successor of St. Peter.
Until then, the Church offers this final commendation: Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen.
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