Pope Francis Dies on Easter Monday, 2025: A World in Mourning

The world awoke to sorrow on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, with the news that #PopeFrancis, beloved leader of the #CatholicChurch, had passed away at the age of 88. The Vatican confirmed his death early that morning, sending ripples of grief across continents and faiths.

The Final Days of a Shepherd

In recent months, Pope Francis had been grappling with serious health challenges. After being hospitalized at the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic in February for bronchitis, his condition further deteriorated, culminating in a diagnosis of bilateral pneumonia. Though he returned to his Vatican residence, Casa Santa Marta, in hopes of recovery, his health continued to decline quietly and steadily.

The Official Announcement

At 7:35 a.m. on April 21, 2025, #PopeFrancis returned to the house of the Father.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, delivered the solemn message to the world:

"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."

What Happens Now?

The Vatican has already set in motion the sacred traditions that follow the death of a pontiff — a process Pope Francis had thoughtfully simplified during his lifetime:

• Public Viewing: On Wednesday, April 23rd, Pope Francis' body will be transferred to St. Peter’s Basilica, where the faithful can come to pay their last respects and honor his #LegacyOfHope.

• Funeral Arrangements: The College of Cardinals will soon meet to finalize the funeral date. In keeping with Pope Francis’ personal wishes for simplicity and humility, the funeral ceremony will serve as his final humble gesture to the world.

• Official Procedures: The Rite of Certification of Death has been completed, and the Papal apartments have been officially sealed, marking the end of his earthly ministry.

A Legacy That Transcends Borders

Pope Francis will be remembered not only as the 266th Bishop of Rome but as a global voice for mercy, peace, and solidarity. His unwavering focus on serving the poor, championing ecological causes like #CareForCreation, and healing divisions within and outside the Church touched millions.
Through his words and actions, he brought the teachings of compassion to life in a way few modern leaders have.

Remembering Pope Francis

As the bells toll and the world bows its head in mourning, we also celebrate the remarkable life #PopeFrancis lived — one of courage, tenderness, and profound faith.
In times of darkness, he reminded us to be lights for one another, urging humanity not to give in to despair but to choose hope.

“Let us not lose hope! Let us never give up! Let us not allow ourselves to be overwhelmed by evil!” — Pope Francis

As we say goodbye, we carry forward the lessons he taught us — of love, of service, and of unwavering faith.
The coming days will be heavy with sadness, but they will also be filled with gratitude for the journey of a man who truly embodied #FaithAndMercy.