The world is mourning the death of Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 88 in the early hours of Easter Monday at his residence in Casa Santa Marta, Vatican City.
The solemn announcement was made by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, who confirmed that the Holy Father died peacefully at 7:35am.
“With deep sorrow, I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis… His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of His Church,” Cardinal Farrell said in an emotional address.
The Pope’s passing comes just hours after he blessed thousands of faithful during Easter Mass at the Vatican on Sunday, a final act of devotion that echoed his lifelong commitment to the Gospel.
Declining Health
Pope Francis had been battling bilateral pneumonia and other respiratory complications following a February admission to the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital. His health had gradually worsened, despite a period of recovery at home.
The Argentine-born pontiff, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, had faced respiratory issues since undergoing lung surgery at age 21. Yet, his unwavering dedication never wavered, even as health challenges forced him to cancel engagements, including a major trip to the UAE in late 2023.
A Simpler Funeral by His Request
In keeping with his humble style, Pope Francis had approved a revised edition of the Ordo Exsequiarum Romani Pontificis the liturgical guide for papal funerals—requesting a simplified funeral that reflects “the faith of the Church in the Risen Body of Christ” rather than worldly grandeur.
Archbishop Diego Ravelli, Master of Apostolic Ceremonies, confirmed that the funeral rites will honor Pope Francis’ wish to be remembered as a shepherd, not a sovereign.
The Vatican has not yet announced the date of the funeral.
Pope Francis leaves behind a legacy of radical humility, compassion for the marginalized, and a papacy deeply rooted in social justice. He became the first Jesuit pope and the first from Latin America, leading the Catholic Church through a decade of transformation.
