Pope Francis, the 266th leader of the Roman Catholic Church and the first Latin American pontiff, passed away on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. His death occurred at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta, following a prolonged battle with double pneumonia. Reuters
A Historic Papacy Comes to an End
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis was elected to the papacy on March 13, 2013. He was the first Jesuit pope and the first from the Americas. His tenure was marked by efforts to modernize the Church, address internal abuses, and engage with global issues such as climate change, economic inequality, and LGBTQ+ rights. Business Insider
Final Days and Passing
Despite health challenges, including a recent hospitalization for double pneumonia, Pope Francis continued his duties, delivering his final Easter blessing from St. Peter’s Basilica on April 20, 2025. He died the following morning, with the Vatican announcing his death at 9:45 AM local time. CNN+2Business Insider+2Catholic News Agency+2Vatican News
The Road Ahead: Papal Conclave
With the papacy now vacant, the Catholic Church enters the “Papal Interregnum,” a period between popes. A conclave of cardinals will convene between May 6 and May 11, 2025, to elect the next pope. Speculation surrounds potential successors, including Cardinals Pietro Parolin and Luis Antonio Tagle. CNNWikipédia, l’encyclopédie libreReuters
FAQs
Q1: Did Pope Francis die?
Yes, Pope Francis passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88.
Q2: What was the cause of his death?
He died following complications from double pneumonia. Reuters
Q3: Who will be the next pope?
A conclave will be held between May 6 and May 11, 2025, to elect his successor. Wikipedia
Q4: Where will Pope Francis be buried?
He will be interred at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome, as per his wishes. euronews
Q5: What is Pope Francis’s legacy?
He is remembered for his humility, progressive reforms, and efforts to address global issues. Business Insider
Disclaimer: This article is based on information available as of April 21, 2025. For the most recent updates, please refer to official Vatican communications and reputable news sources.