JUST IN: Pope Francis Dies Aged 88, Vatican Confirm

Pope Francis has died at the age of 88, the Vatican announced in a video statement on Monday, April 21. The pontiff passed away at his residence in Casa Santa Marta after a brief battle with illness.

The Vatican’s official message confirmed, “Pope Francis died on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88 at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta.”

Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis was elected to lead the Roman Catholic Church in March 2013, becoming the first pope from Latin America and the first non-European pontiff in over 1,200 years. He was also the first Jesuit to hold the papacy.

His death follows months of declining health. Since February, Pope Francis had been battling a respiratory infection, which developed into pneumonia and led to mild kidney failure. A worsening episode in March, which included vomiting and respiratory distress, marked a critical turn. Despite brief moments of stability, Vatican updates acknowledged his condition remained fragile. On February 23, he was unable to deliver the Angelus prayer and asked Catholics worldwide to pray for him.

Camerlengo Cardinal Kevin Farrell confirmed the Pope’s passing this morning: “At 7.35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of his Church.”

Throughout his 12-year papacy, Francis was seen as one of the most progressive leaders the Catholic Church has had in modern times. He was known for his humility, commitment to social justice, and his efforts to reform the Church from within. He frequently spoke out on global issues such as climate change, refugee rights, and economic inequality. He also broke ground by softening the Church’s stance on LGBTQ+ issues, famously saying, “Who am I to judge?”

Francis also pushed for significant internal reform, including promoting women to senior roles in the Vatican and choosing to live in modest quarters instead of the Apostolic Palace.

As tributes pour in from around the world, the Church and its followers begin a period of mourning for a pope remembered for his compassion, courage, and groundbreaking leadership.