Rome, April 21, 2025 – A somber announcement shakes the Catholic world and beyond: Pope Francis passed away this morning at 7:35 a.m. The news was delivered by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church: “At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father.”
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires on December 17, 1936, Pope Francis was the first Jesuit Pope and the first South American to ascend the throne of Peter. Elected on March 13, 2013, he led the Church for over twelve years, becoming a global figure not only for Catholics but also for people of all faiths and none.
Throughout his pontificate, he tirelessly sought to place humanity and mercy at the heart of the Church’s mission, often challenging entrenched traditions within the Roman Curia. He emphasized social justice, care for creation, peace, and interreligious dialogue. His visits to conflict zones, his powerful words on behalf of migrants, and his encyclical Laudato si’—a landmark document on climate action—are among the defining moments of his papacy.
His humble style, rejection of papal opulence, and unwavering focus on the poor and marginalized earned him admiration worldwide, though also criticism from more conservative factions within the Church.
As news spreads, thousands of faithful are gathering in St. Peter’s Square to pay tribute to the Pope who reshaped the Church of the 21st century. His body will lie in state in St. Peter’s Basilica in the coming days for public veneration, ahead of the solemn state funeral to be held in the Vatican.
The Church now enters the period of Sede Vacante, during which the College of Cardinals will prepare for the Conclave to elect the next Successor of Peter.
The world bids farewell, with sorrow and gratitude, to a man who sought to bring the Gospel closer to daily life, showing through his actions that the Church can be a tender and merciful mother to all.
Pope Francis, a man of smiles and silence, rest in peace.