Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, died on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88, marking the end of a significant era for the Catholic Church. His death was announced by the Vatican at 7:35 AM, coinciding with Easter Monday, a day of great importance for Catholics worldwide.
The Vatican confirmed the news through Cardinal Kevin Farrell, who stated, "This morning at 7:35, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father." This announcement followed a period of declining health for the pontiff, who had been battling severe bilateral pneumonia for weeks.
Pope Francis had made his last public appearance on Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025, where he appeared frail but still engaged with the congregation gathered at St. Peter's Square. Approximately 50,000 faithful were present to witness the Pope as he delivered his traditional Easter message, albeit with the assistance of a collaborator for the reading of the "Urbi et Orbi" blessing. His voice was weak, and he struggled to speak, a stark contrast to his usual vigor.
His pontificate began in March 2013, following the unexpected resignation of his predecessor, Pope Benedict XVI. Over nearly 12 years, Pope Francis became the first South American and Jesuit pope, known for his approachable demeanor, humility, and advocacy for the marginalized. His death during the octave of Easter holds profound symbolic significance, representing both an end and a new beginning in the Christian liturgical calendar.
Bishop Pierre-Yves Michel of Nancy and Toul called for all churches in Meurthe-et-Moselle to ring their bells at noon on the day of his death to honor the late pontiff. "There is much emotion to see this servant of the Church depart," he remarked, highlighting the sense of loss felt across the globe. A mass will be celebrated at the Nancy Cathedral at 6:15 PM on April 21, 2025, to pray for Pope Francis.
Father Jean-Michaël Munier, rector of the Nancy Cathedral, reflected on the Pope's passing, stating, "He is in the arms of the Father. We expected this. The doctors did everything they could. For Christians, Easter is an important religious celebration symbolizing the victory of life over death." He recalled his last encounter with Pope Francis during the Jubilee of Mercy in 2017.
Pope Francis had faced numerous health challenges in recent years, having been hospitalized four times since 2021 due to various respiratory issues, including bronchitis and colds. His health had sharply declined after being admitted to Gemelli Hospital in Rome on February 14, 2025, where he was treated for pneumonia. Reports from the Vatican indicated that his condition was complex, requiring intensive medical care.
Despite the challenges, Pope Francis continued to engage with global issues, maintaining contact with the parish priest in Gaza throughout his illness, demonstrating his commitment to solidarity with those in need. His last public appearance was a poignant reminder of his dedication to the Church and its followers.
Throughout his pontificate, Pope Francis was known for his progressive approach to various societal issues, including a strong emphasis on environmental stewardship as outlined in his encyclical, Laudato Si', and advocacy for the poor and marginalized. His leadership style was characterized by a directness and a focus on mercy and compassion, which resonated with many beyond the Catholic community.
Born on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Bergoglio's journey to the papacy was marked by a commitment to social justice and a desire to reform the Church. His election as pope was historic, as he was the first non-European pope in over a millennium. He led the Church through significant events, including the first funeral of a pope not coinciding with the end of a papacy since 1417, when he presided over the funeral of Pope Benedict XVI in January 2023.
Pope Francis's legacy includes a call for a more inclusive Church, one that embraces the complexities of modern society while remaining rooted in its foundational teachings. His tenure was not without controversy, as some traditionalists felt his progressive stance on certain issues strayed too far from orthodox teachings, while others believed he did not go far enough in reforming the Church.
As the world mourns the loss of Pope Francis, many reflect on his contributions to the Church and the broader global community. His passing during the Easter season, a time of renewal and hope, serves as a poignant reminder of his message of love and mercy.
In the coming days, tributes will pour in from around the globe as leaders and followers alike remember the man who sought to bring the message of Christ to a contemporary audience. The Church faces a new chapter as it prepares for the election of a new pope, with many hoping to continue the legacy of compassion and outreach that Pope Francis championed during his time as the shepherd of the Catholic faithful.
