April 21, 2025 — Vatican City
By Western Today
Pope Francis, the 266th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church and its first leader from Latin America, passed away on Easter Monday at the age of 88. The Vatican announced that the Pope died at 7:35 a.m. local time in his residence at Casa Santa Marta, succumbing to a cerebral stroke that led to a coma and irreversible heart failure .
Despite recent health challenges, including a 38-day hospitalization for double pneumonia earlier this year, Pope Francis made a final public appearance on Easter Sunday, delivering the traditional Urbi et Orbi blessing from St. Peter’s Square .
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, he was elected pope in 2013, becoming the first Jesuit and the first non-European to hold the papacy in over a millennium. His tenure was marked by efforts to reform the Church, promote inclusivity, and address global issues such as climate change and social inequality.
Tributes have poured in from around the world. U.S. President Joe Biden, French President Emmanuel Macron, and UN Secretary-General António Guterres praised his moral leadership and commitment to peace. Religious leaders, including the Dalai Lama and various Orthodox patriarchs, acknowledged his dedication to interfaith dialogue .
In accordance with his wishes, Pope Francis will be buried in the Basilica of Saint Mary Major, opting for a simple tomb inscribed only with “Franciscus” . Public mourning is set to begin on Wednesday in St. Peter’s Basilica, with his funeral expected between Friday and Sunday. A conclave of 135 cardinal electors, most appointed by Francis, will convene to select his successor .
Pope Francis leaves behind a legacy of humility, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to addressing the challenges of the modern world through the lens of faith.
