Pope Francis, a steadfast voice for peace, passed away at 88. His death on April 21, 2025, marked the end of a papacy defined by humility and compassion. The Catholic Church now faces a transition as it mourns its leader.
The Daily Mail reported that the pontiff’s death was caused by a cerebral stroke and heart failure at the Vatican’s Saint Martha residence, according to official statements from the Vatican.
On April 20, 2025, he greeted 35,000 worshippers in St. Peter’s Square for Easter Sunday. Despite recent health struggles, he delivered the Urbi et Orbi blessing, urging peace in Ukraine and Gaza.
At 6:00 AM on April 21, 2025, Pope Francis awoke but fell ill by 7:00 AM. A cerebral stroke led to a coma, followed by irreversible heart failure. Dr. Andrea Arcangeli certified his death at 7:35 AM.
The Vatican confirmed the cause via electrocardiographic thanatography. Pope Francis had battled multiple health issues, including pneumonia and diabetes. His passing was announced 12 hours later, prompting global mourning.
That evening, thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square for a Rosary vigil. Cardinal Mauro Gambetti led the 34-minute prayer, which ended with applause. The faithful honored a pope who championed the poor and unity.
In London, over 1,000 mourners attended a mass at Westminster Cathedral. Italian officials considered three days of national mourning, a gesture last seen in 2005 for Pope John Paul II. Such tributes underscored Francis’s worldwide impact.
His final testament revealed a humble burial wish. He requested a simple tomb in the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, inscribed only with “Franciscus.” A benefactor will cover the costs, per arrangements with Cardinal Rolandas Makrickas.
Pope Francis entrusted his suffering for world peace and fraternity. His will emphasized devotion to the Virgin Mary, choosing a burial niche near the Pauline Chapel. This choice reflected his lifelong faith and modesty.
The pontiff’s body will lie in state in St. Peter’s Basilica, possibly starting April 23, 2025. A Conclave to select his successor will begin after nine days of mourning. Of 252 cardinals, 138 under 80 are eligible to vote.
Cardinal Kevin Ferrell, the Vatican camerlengo, assumed interim leadership. Pope Francis appointed about 80% of the voting cardinals, shaping the next papacy. Contenders include Peter Turkson and Luis Antonio Tagle, potential historic firsts.
The canonization of Carlo Acutis, set for April 27, 2025, was postponed. Francis’s death shifted the Church’s focus to mourning and transition. His influence remains strong among the faithful.
Pope Francis had been hospitalized for 38 days, battling double pneumonia until March 23, 2025. Doctors urged two months of rest, but he resumed a busy schedule. His determination to serve persisted despite two life-threatening episodes but his admirable tenacity eventually faded.