Pope Francis dies at 88

Pope Francis died on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at 88 at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta.

Pope Francis, whose birth name is Jorge Mario Bergoglio, was born on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina. He made history by being elected as the first pope from Latin America on March 13, 2013.

Before his death, Pope Francis appeared publicly just over 24 hours ago, when he wished worshippers in the Vatican’s St Peter’s Square a “Happy Easter” and waved to cheering crowds from his wheelchair on the balcony of St Peter’s Basilica. Pope Francis also used his last public address to call for a ceasefire in Gaza. He maintained his commitment to check in on a daily basis with priests and parishioners at the Holy Family Catholic Church in Gaza City.

Poe Francis had suffered various ailments in his 12-year papacy, with severe complications in recent weeks.

Pope Francis dedicated himself to marginalized people, especially refugees.

“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.” — Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, spoke these words at the Casa Santa Marta.