Pope Francis dies at 88 on Easter Monday, Vatican Announces

New Delhi, April 21, 2025

Pope Francis, the first Latin American pontiff in history, has passed away at the age of 88. Known for his humble demeanour and commitment to addressing poverty, he garnered global admiration. However, his critiques of capitalism and climate change also alienated conservatives.

The pope’s death was announced by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Vatican camerlengo.

“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. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of His Church,” the Vatican camerlengo said.

He continued, “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.”

He appeared for Easter celebrations less than 24 hours ago at Vatican

The Pope’s death comes less than a day after he made an appearance at the Vatican’s St Peter’s Square for Easter Sunday.

He came out in a wheelchair and waved from the balcony of St Peter’s Basilica to cheering crowds, saying: “Dear brothers and sisters, happy Easter.”

Pope Francis was hospitalized at Gemelli hospital on February 14, 2025, due to a respiratory crisis that progressed to double pneumonia. This prolonged hospital stay, lasting 38 days, marked the longest period of his 12-year papacy.

Throughout his papacy, the pope consistently championed the rights of migrants. He publicly condemned the United States’ immigration deportation policies in the months before his passing. His stance, which was opposite to the growing trend of nationalist populism, frequently drew criticism from conservatives in the US.

Read More: Putin Declares Easter Ceasefire Amid Ongoing Tensions with Ukraine