Pope Francis Passes Away at 88

The head of the Roman Catholic Church, His Holiness Pope Francis, has passed away at the age of 88.

According to a statement from the Vatican, Pope Francis died peacefully at 7:35 a.m. local time on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025 just a day after he made a much-anticipated appearance during Easter Sunday Mass at St. Peter’s Square.

In an official announcement shared via the Vatican’s Telegram channel, Cardinal Kevin Farrell wrote:

“Dearest brothers and sisters, it is with deep sorrow that I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis.

This morning at 7:35 a.m. (0535 GMT), the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and His Church.”

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, was the first Jesuit pope and the first from the Americas. He assumed the papacy in March 2013 following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI. Throughout his pontificate, he was known for championing humility, social justice, and a more inclusive Church.

His passing marks the end of a transformative era for the Catholic Church. Details regarding funeral arrangements and succession plans are expected to be released by the Vatican in the coming days.