This morning at 7:35 AM, Pope Francis, the 266th Bishop of Rome, passed away peacefully at the Casa Santa Marta residence in the Vatican. His death was officially announced at 9:45 AM by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, who honored him as a faithful disciple who dedicated his life to the Gospel, particularly serving the poor and marginalized.
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, had long battled recurring respiratory issues. A portion of his lung was removed in his early twenties following a serious infection, and in recent years, his health challenges had become more frequent. He was hospitalized on February 14, 2025, at the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic after suffering from bronchitis. His condition worsened with a diagnosis of bilateral pneumonia on February 18, leading to a prolonged 38-day hospital stay.
Despite his declining health, Francis remained active in his papal duties and pastoral mission until the end. In April 2024, he approved a revised edition of the Ordo Exsequiarum Romani Pontificis, the liturgical guide for papal funerals. This updated rite, which will now be used for his own funeral, emphasizes the Pope’s role as a servant of Christ rather than a figure of worldly power.
According to Archbishop Diego Ravelli, Master of Apostolic Ceremonies, Pope Francis had personally requested a simpler funeral, centered on Christian hope in the Resurrection. In keeping with the new rite, his death will be confirmed in a chapel ceremony, and his body will be placed directly into the coffin.
Pope Francis leaves behind a powerful legacy of humility, peace-building, and radical advocacy for the poor. Throughout his pontificate, he championed the cause of migrants, challenged global inequality, and called on humanity to care for creation. His voice resonated not through dominance, but through mercy.
Details of the funeral Mass and public mourning period are expected to be announced shortly by the Vatican.
