Pope Francis, the 266th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church and the first from Latin America, died peacefully on Monday, April 21, 2025, at his residence in the Vatican. He was 88.
The Vatican Press Office confirmed his death in a brief statement released early Monday morning.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis faced a series of health complications in recent years. His health began to deteriorate significantly after he underwent colon surgery in July 2021. Doctors hospitalized him multiple times for respiratory issues, including bronchitis and lung inflammation.
In late 2024, doctors diagnosed him with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which limited his ability to travel and perform public duties. By early 2025, he had drastically reduced his public appearances and delegated many responsibilities to senior Vatican officials.
A Transformative Papacy
The College of Cardinals elected Francis in March 2013 following Pope Benedict XVI’s historic resignation. He became the first Jesuit pope, the first from the Americas, and the first non-European pope in more than 1,200 years. His election ushered in a new era for the Church, defined by a pastoral and reform-oriented approach.
Throughout his 12-year pontificate, Pope Francis championed the causes of the poor, the marginalized, and the environment. In 2015, he released Laudato Si’, a groundbreaking encyclical on climate change and ecological responsibility that drew global praise.
He initiated sweeping reforms in the Roman Curia, tackled sexual abuse scandals with a renewed focus on transparency, and promoted inclusion and compassion on divisive issues such as divorce, LGBTQ+ rights, and interfaith dialogue. His call for “a Church that is poor and for the poor” struck a chord with millions worldwide.
Pope Francis also emerged as a global advocate for peace. He helped mediate international conflicts, played a key role in thawing U.S.-Cuba relations, and supported peace efforts in the Middle East and Africa. He traveled extensively, offering hope and solidarity in countries such as Myanmar, Iraq, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the Philippines.
A Humble Servant
Pope Francis famously declined to live in the Apostolic Palace, choosing instead a modest guesthouse within Vatican City. He consistently rejected papal opulence and reminded believers of the Church’s mission to serve.
As the Church prepares to elect a new pope, Catholics across the world mourn the passing of a leader who inspired millions through his empathy, courage, and vision for a more compassionate world.
The Vatican is expected to announce funeral arrangements later this week. Leaders from around the globe will likely attend what promises to be one of the most significant events in modern Church history.
