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Pope Francis during the impartation of the 'Urbi et Orbi' blessing and wishes "good Easter" from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica

Pope Francis Dead At 88: What Happened?

Cause of death confirmed as stroke and heart failure after months of health complications

The Catholic Church and millions of faithful around the world are mourning the loss of Pope Francis, who died in the early hours of April 21, 2025, at the age of 88.

The news was confirmed in a solemn announcement by Cardinal Kevin Joseph Farrell, delivered from the Vatican: «Dear brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the passing 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 the Church. We entrust his soul to the infinite, merciful love of the one and triune God.»

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, had been suffering from health complications in recent months. On February 14, he was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital with bilateral pneumonia. Although he was initially reported to be in recovery, his condition deteriorated after a respiratory crisis that required oxygen therapy.

Pope Francis during the impartation of the 'Urbi et Orbi'
Pope Francis during the impartation of the ‘Urbi et Orbi’ blessing and wishes «good Easter» from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, April 20, 2024, in Rome (Italy). Stefano Spaziani/Europa Press via Getty Images

This was not his first serious health concern. In early February, he had to pause a mass due to breathing difficulties. In 2023, he was hospitalized for similar respiratory issues and underwent surgery for an abdominal hernia later that year.

The Vatican had regularly reassured the public of his improving health, but concern remained high among Catholics. Many had been praying for his recovery in recent weeks. On Monday, those prayers turned into global tributes and mourning.

A Legacy of Service and Reform

Jorge Mario Bergoglio was born on December 17, 1936, and entered the Society of Jesus at age 21. He was ordained a priest in 1969 and went on to serve as Archbishop of Buenos Aires before being made a cardinal by Pope John Paul II in 2001.

His election to the papacy on March 13, 2013, marked a historic moment: he became the first pope from Latin America and the first Jesuit pope in history. His papacy was defined by a spirit of humility, reform, and social justice. He championed causes like climate action, interfaith dialogue, and the inclusion of marginalized groups — especially the poor.

Cathedral staff set up an image of Pope Francis inside The Metropolitan Cathedral of the Most Precious Blood
Cathedral staff set up an image of Pope Francis inside The Metropolitan Cathedral of the Most Precious Blood, informally known as Westminster Cathedral, in central London on April 21, 2025, following the news of his death. Pope Francis died on April 21, 2025 aged 88, a day after making a much hoped-for appearance at Saint Peter’s Square on Easter Sunday, the Vatican said in a statement. HENRY NICHOLLS / AFP

Pope Francis also opened conversations about modernizing aspects of the Church, advocating for greater female involvement and a more compassionate stance toward controversial issues.

Though his papacy was not without criticism or resistance, his commitment to a more inclusive and merciful Church earned him the love of millions across faiths and continents.

What Happens Now?

With his passing, the Church enters a period known as sede vacante — the seat of the Pope is vacant. The College of Cardinals will soon gather in conclave to elect a new pope. Until then, Vatican operations will continue under the guidance of senior cardinals and officials.

Rest in peace, Pope Francis.