Pope Died on Easter Monday, Aged 88 – A Life of Faith, Mercy, and Legacy

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Introduction:

Pope Francis, the 266th Pope of the Roman Catholic Church, passed away peacefully at 88 on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at his residence in Casa Santa Marta, Vatican City. Discover the full story behind his peaceful passing, his health struggles, the Vatican’s response, and his lasting legacy as a Pope of peace and mercy. (Pope Died)

A Sudden Loss on a Sacred Day

The timing of his death—on the day after celebrating Christ’s resurrection—adds profound spiritual weight to the moment for millions of Catholics worldwide.

Official Announcement from the Vatican – Pope Died

At 9:45 AM, Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, conveyed the news with profound sadness:

At 7:35 this morning, Pope Francis, the Bishop of Rome, departed from this world and returned to the embrace of the Father. His life was a gift to the Church and a beacon of hope for the marginalized.”

The Vatican confirmed that Pope Francis died peacefully in his sleep, surrounded by his closest aides.

Details Surrounding His Passing

Health Complications

Pope Francis had been recovering from a recent hospitalization due to bilateral pneumonia. He had spent 38 days at the Agostino Gemelli Hospital in Rome before returning to his residence to continue recovering.

Despite signs of improvement, his condition worsened during Holy Week, culminating in his death on April 21.

Last Rites and Rituals

The rite of certification of death was held at 8:00 PM in the chapel on the ground floor of Casa Santa Marta. Seals were placed on his papal apartment as a formal tradition, marking the beginning of mourning.

Pope Francis: A Life of Service

Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in 1936, Pope Francis made history in 2013 as the first Jesuit, first Latin American, and first non-European pope in over 1,200 years.

His papacy was characterized by a commitment to humility, social justice, and a profound compassion for the impoverished. He often identified himself as a “servant of the servants of God.”

Health Struggles Leading to His Death

Pope Francis faced ongoing health issues for decades. He had part of his lung removed in his 20s due to a severe respiratory infection.

In recent years, he battled bronchitis, influenza, and inflammation of the lungs. He canceled multiple public events, including a visit to the UAE in 2023, due to health complications.

Preparations for Funeral Rites

The Vatican announced plans to transfer Pope Francis’ body to By Wednesday morning, April 23, 2025, arrangements were made for the public to pay their respects at St. Peter’s Basilica.

Condolences were offered by Representatives from the President’s office, and the European Parliament will be present at St. Peter’s Basilica, where the public will have the chance to pay their respects. Read more about the Ordo Exsequiarum Romani Pontificis—the updated funeral rite for Popes approved by Francis himself in April 2024.

The Pope’s Final Wishes

Pope Francis had made clear he wanted a simple and faith-filled funeral, rather than a lavish event. According to Archbishop Diego Ravelli, the Pope emphasized the theme of resurrection:

“His funeral must reflect not the glory of power, but the hope of eternal life through Christ.”

Reactions from the Global Community

From heads of state to everyday believers, the world poured out tributes and prayers. Leaders like Pope Francis were filled with #RIPPopeFrancis and messages of mourning from Christians, Muslims, Jews, and people of all faiths.

How the Church Mourns a Pope

The death of a pope triggers a complex and ancient process. The Vatican enters an official mourning period, and the College of Cardinals convenes to plan the funeral and discuss the next steps.

Learn more from this guide on how a pope is succeeded.

Public Viewing at St. Peter’s Basilica

Starting April 23, faithful from around the world will gather at Security will be high, and the Vatican has urged pilgrims to come prepared for long lines and emotional moments.

Pope Francis

Pope Francis will be remembered as the “Pope of Mercy.” His teachings emphasized love, inclusion, and humility.

Notable contributions include:

Encyclical Laudato Si’ on climate change
Support for refugees and migrants
Historic visit to Iraq in 2021
Church reform and transparency

YouTube Tribute and Community Reflections

YouTube creators and Catholic influencers have published tribute videos and reflections on his legacy.

🎥 Watch this moving tribute to Pope Francis:
👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nNf75LH8uwE

These videos help bridge generations, explaining his legacy to both lifelong Catholics and curious viewers.

Looking Ahead: What Happens Next in the Vatican

The College of Cardinals will soon begin General Congregations to prepare for the next conclave.

In the coming 15 to 20 days, a new pope is anticipated to be elected through a confidential voting process held within the Sistine Chapel.

Until then, the Camerlengo, Cardinal Farrell, is responsible for day-to-day Vatican operations.

Media Coverage and Reliable Sources

For accurate information and updates, follow:

Avoid rumors or viral content without citations. The Pope’s passing is sacred and should be treated with respect.

Conclusion: A Shepherd to the End

Pope Francis lived for others. His papacy was one of inclusion, compassion, and real-world action. He made the Church feel more human and more approachable.

Now, as we bid farewell, we are called to carry on his mission of love and mercy.

“If we want to be Christians, we must be poor, like Jesus. Without a spirit of poverty, there is no Gospel.” – Pope Francis

May his soul rest in peace.