Pope Francis Passes Away at 88: A Legacy of Compassion and Reform

Pope Francis, the first Latin American pontiff in the history of the Roman Catholic Church, died on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. The Vatican announced that he passed away at his residence in Casa Santa Marta following a stroke that led to a coma and cardiovascular arrest.

Final Days of Service

Just one day before his death, on Easter Sunday, Pope Francis appeared in St. Peter's Square to deliver the traditional Urbi et Orbi blessing. Though visibly frail and using a wheelchair, he insisted on blessing the faithful with a faint but determined voice, wishing them a "Happy Easter." He also took a brief ride in the popemobile, drawing cheers from the crowd in what would become his final public appearance.

In his last hours, Francis remained committed to his lifelong advocacy for peace and the marginalized, offering prayers for Gaza amid ongoing conflict. Notably, he also met with U.S. Vice President JD Vance on Easter Sunday—a meeting that generated significant discussion online due to their contrasting views on immigration.

A History of Health Challenges

The pontiff's health had been deteriorating for some time. Having lost part of a lung in his youth due to pleurisy, he was particularly vulnerable to respiratory issues. In February 2025, he was hospitalized for bronchitis that developed into bilateral pneumonia, raising concerns about sepsis. Though released in March with instructions to rest for two months, Francis continued making public appearances, true to his dedicated approach to leadership.

According to Vatican doctor Andrea Arcangeli, Francis had also been managing high blood pressure and diabetes before the stroke that claimed his life.

Global Mourning and Tributes

World leaders from across the political spectrum paid tribute to the pope. Former U.S. President Barack Obama described Francis as "the rare leader who made us want to be better people," while President Donald Trump, despite past disagreements with Francis over immigration policy, called him "a good man" who "loved the world" and announced plans to attend the funeral.

Even Argentinian President Javier Milei, who had once harshly criticized Francis, expressed honor at having known the pontiff's "goodness and wisdom." Argentina and Brazil declared seven days of national mourning. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy also shared condolences, with Zelenskiy acknowledging Francis's ability to "foster unity and give hope." In Italy, flags were lowered to half-staff, and several soccer matches were postponed to honor the deceased pontiff.

A Transformative Papacy

Elected on March 13, 2013, Pope Francis brought significant reforms to the Catholic Church during his 12-year papacy. Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina, he became known for his progressive approach to Church doctrine, emphasis on environmental stewardship through his encyclical Laudato Si', and commitment to inclusivity.

Francis prioritized interfaith dialogue and appointed nearly 80% of the cardinal electors who will choose his successor, potentially securing the continuation of his progressive vision despite resistance from traditionalists.

In his final testament, Francis requested burial in a simple underground tomb at the Basilica of Saint Mary Major, rather than St. Peter's Basilica, with only "Franciscus" inscribed on it—reflecting his lifelong devotion to the Virgin Mary and characteristic humility.

Pope Francis Passes Away: The Path Forward

The Vatican has announced that Francis' coffin will be moved to St. Peter's Basilica around April 23 for public viewing. The funeral is expected between Friday and Sunday, with numerous world leaders in attendance. Following tradition, a conclave to elect the next pope will take place within 15 to 20 days.

A planned canonization ceremony for Carlo Acutis, set to become the first millennial Catholic saint, has been postponed from its April 27 date.

As the world's 1.4 billion Catholics and many others reflect on Pope Francis' legacy, his call to "never remain on the sidelines of this march of living hope" continues to resonate. His papacy, marked by both compassion and controversy, leaves an indelible mark on the Catholic Church and beyond as it prepares to enter a new chapter.