Pope Francis passed away on Easter Monday at age of 88
Pope Francis passed away on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88 at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta.
Pope Francis passed away on Easter Monday at age of 88
Cardinal Kevin Farrell delivered the solemn news at 9:45 AM from the Casa Santa Marta. Pope Francis, the 26th leader of the Catholic Church, passed away at 7:35 this morning at the age of 88.
“Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis,” Cardinal Farrell stated. “At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father.”
Cardinal Farrell honored the Pope’s lifelong commitment to service. He emphasized how Francis taught the faithful to embody Gospel values with “fidelity, courage, and universal love,” particularly for society’s most vulnerable members.
Pope Francis Began His Final Health Battle on February 14
Pope Francis began his final health battle on February 14, 2025. Doctors admitted him to the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital after he suffered from bronchitis for several days.
His condition deteriorated rapidly. Medical staff diagnosed bilateral pneumonia on February 18, marking a serious turn in his health.
The Pope fought his illness for 38 days in the hospital. He eventually returned to his Vatican residence at Casa Santa Marta to continue recovery efforts before his passing.
Francis Faced Respiratory Issues Throughout His Life
Francis faced respiratory issues throughout his life. In 1957, as a young man in his twenties, Jorge Mario Bergoglio underwent surgery in Argentina to remove part of his lung due to a severe respiratory infection.
This early medical intervention affected his health throughout his papacy. Respiratory illnesses plagued him frequently as he aged.
In November 2023, the Pope canceled a planned visit to the United Arab Emirates. Influenza and lung inflammation prevented his travel, highlighting his ongoing vulnerability to respiratory conditions.
The Late Pontiff Approved Significant Changes to Papal Funeral Rituals
The late pontiff approved significant changes to papal funeral rituals in April 2024. These updated guidelines will now govern his own funeral Mass.
The second edition of the Ordo Exsequiarum Romani Pontificis introduces several new elements. These changes include modifications to how the Pope’s remains will be handled after death.
Officials will confirm death in the chapel rather than in the place of death. The body will immediately go into the coffin, streamlining the traditional process.
Archbishop Diego Ravelli Revealed the Pope Specifically Requested Simplified Funeral Rites
Archbishop Diego Ravelli revealed the Pope specifically requested simplified funeral rites. Francis wanted the ceremony to emphasize the Church’s faith in Christ’s resurrection.
“The renewed rite seeks to emphasize even more that the funeral of the Roman Pontiff is that of a pastor and disciple of Christ,” Archbishop Ravelli explained. “Not of a powerful person of this world.”
This final instruction reflects Francis’ consistent approach throughout his papacy. He continually emphasized simplicity, humility, and focusing on Christ rather than worldly power.
