VATICAN CITY – Pope Francis, the 88-year-old leader of the Catholic Church, has died at his residence, the Casa Santa Marta. Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, announced the pontiff’s passing at 9:45 AM today, April 21, 2025.
“Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father,” Cardinal Farrell stated. “His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of His Church. He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage, and universal love, especially in favor of the poorest and most marginalized. With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite merciful love of the One and Triune God.”
Matteo Bruni, Director of the Holy See Press Office, later informed journalists that the late Pope’s body is expected to be transferred to St. Peter’s Basilica on Wednesday morning, April 23, 2025, to allow the faithful to pay their respects. “The translation of the Holy Father’s mortal remains to the Vatican Basilica, for the veneration of all the faithful, may take place on the morning of Wednesday, April 23, 2025, according to the arrangements that shall be determined and communicated tomorrow, following the first Congregation of the Cardinals,” Bruni said.
Pope Francis had been admitted to the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital on February 14, 2025, following complications from bronchitis. His condition deteriorated, leading to a diagnosis of bilateral pneumonia on February 18. After 38 days of hospitalization, he returned to the Casa Santa Marta to continue his recovery.
The late Pope’s health had been a subject of concern due to his history of respiratory issues. In his early 20s, he underwent surgery in Argentina to remove a portion of his lung. He also canceled a trip to the United Arab Emirates in November 2023 due to influenza and lung inflammation.
In April 2024, Pope Francis approved an updated edition of the liturgical book for papal funeral rites, the Ordo Exsequiarum Romani Pontificis. This revised edition, which will guide his funeral Mass, emphasizes simplicity and reflects his desire for the service to focus on the Church’s faith in the Risen Christ.
Archbishop Diego Ravelli, Master of Apostolic Ceremonies, noted that Pope Francis had requested a streamlined funeral, highlighting his role as a pastor and disciple rather than a worldly figure of power. The revised rites include changes to how the Pope’s death is ascertained and how his body is prepared for burial.
The Vatican is expected to release further details about the funeral proceedings in the coming days.
