• Humble reformer and global voice for justice passes away on Easter Monday
April 21, 2025
Pope Francis, the 266th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church and the first from Latin America, died peacefully on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025 at the age of 88.
The Vatican confirmed his death in a statement issued by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church.
“At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father,” the statement read.
The Pope passed away at his residence in the Casa Santa Marta within Vatican City.
Final days and health challenges
Pope Francis had long battled health complications, including chronic lung issues stemming from a partial lung removal in his youth.
In February 2025, he was admitted to Gemelli Hospital following a respiratory crisis that developed into double pneumonia.
His 38-day hospitalisation was the longest of his 12-year pontificate.
Despite his deteriorating health, Pope Francis made a final public appearance on Easter Sunday.
In a moment of poignant symbolism, he delivered his blessing from a wheelchair, while Cardinal Angelo Comastri presided over the Easter Mass on his behalf.
A Papacy of reform and compassion
Elected on March 13, 2013, following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI, Pope Francis made history as the first Jesuit and the first Latin American to ascend to the papacy.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, he brought a new tone of humility and simplicity to the papal office, eschewing many traditional trappings and focusing on the Church’s mission to the poor and marginalised.
His tenure was marked by bold efforts to reform the Church.
He confronted the global sexual abuse crisis head-on, calling for accountability within Church leadership.
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He promoted environmental responsibility through the landmark encyclical Laudato Si’, supported civil unions for same-sex couples, and advocated for the abolition of the death penalty worldwide.
In 2022, during a visit to Canada, he publicly apologised for the Church’s role in the abuse of Indigenous children in residential schools, calling it a “genocide.”
Tributes and legacy
World leaders and religious figures across the globe have paid tribute to Pope Francis, describing him as a transformative figure who championed social justice, interfaith dialogue, and pastoral outreach.
Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof says “Pope Francis was in every way a man of the people.”
European Parliament President Roberta Metsola says “his contagious smile captured millions of people’s hearts across the globe.”
Israeli President Isaac Herzog hails his “boundless compassion.”
Swiss President Karin Keller-Sutter says Pope Francis was a “great spiritual leader, a tireless advocate for peace.”
Scottish First Minister John Swinney describes him as “a voice for peace, tolerance and reconciliation.”
Cardinal Farrell noted that Francis “embodied the Gospel’s call to serve, to love, and to walk humbly with God.”
The Pope’s death now triggers the traditional Vatican protocols.
A period of mourning has commenced, and preparations are underway for his funeral rites.
Details regarding the conclave to elect his successor are expected in the coming days.
Pope Francis leaves behind a legacy of compassion, reform, and unwavering advocacy for the oppressed, shaping the global Church in ways that will resonate for generations.
