BREAKING NEWS: In sad news for Christians worldwide, Pope Francis, a figure known for his compassion and advocacy for the marginalized, has passed away at the age of 88.
See the tweet below!
This monumental event transpired on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta.
Mourners flock to St. Peter’s Square to pay their respects, their grief matched only by the gravity of the moment.
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires in 1936, dedicated his life to the Roman Catholic Church.
On February 14, his battle with bronchitis took a turn for the worse, escalating into bilateral pneumonia.
After a prolonged hospital stay, he returned to his Vatican residence, where he ultimately passed.
His death was confirmed by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, who praised Pope Francis’ unwavering commitment to Gospel values.
Reflecting on his life, Farrell stated, “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.”
Francis’ death comes after enduring numerous respiratory issues, which previously affected his travel plans.
Notably, he canceled a visit to the UAE in 2023 due to health concerns.
His history with respiratory ailments dates back to 1957 when he underwent significant lung surgery in Argentina.
As the Catholic world mourns, global and national leaders, including King Charles and UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, express profound sorrow and laud his leadership, signaling the end of an era, The Vatican News reports.
Bells toll in St. Peter’s Square, signaling both an ending and an entry into a new chapter for the Vatican as the process of electing a new Pope begins.
Pope Francis died on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88 at his residence in the Vatican's Casa Santa Marta. pic.twitter.com/jUIkbplVi2
— Vatican News (@VaticanNews) April 21, 2025
Pope Francis was noted for reforming the Church’s focus and is remembered for encouraging youth to embrace Church values.
In April 2024, he approved an updated edition of the papal funeral rites, reflecting his desire for simplicity and faith-based ceremony, underscoring his role as a disciple of Christ rather than a power figure.
Archbishop Diego Ravelli remarked, “The renewed rite seeks to emphasise even more that the funeral of the Roman Pontiff is that of a pastor and disciple of Christ and not of a powerful person of this world.”
Mourning Pope Francis’ departure, world leaders honor his contributions and devotion to spreading compassion and love.
Amidst grief, his legacy as the first Latin American Pope will continue to inspire the faithful across the globe.
