- Pope Francis, the beloved head of the Roman Catholic Church, has died from complications from a stroke and heart failure, according to the Vatican.
- The pontiff passed away peacefully at Casa Santa Marta in Vatican City, a day after celebrating Easter and blessing thousands of faithful during Mass.
Pope Francis, the revered leader of the Roman Catholic Church, has died at the age of 88, following complications from a stroke and heart failure, according to an official Vatican announcement.
The pontiff passed away peacefully at his residence in Casa Santa Marta, Vatican City, a day after he led Easter celebrations and delivered his final public blessing.
In a statement, the Vatican revealed that the Pope slipped into a coma after suffering a stroke, which ultimately led to fatal cardiac complications. The Holy Father had also been battling pneumonia and other lingering health issues, having been hospitalized for 38 days earlier this year.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, made the somber announcement:
“With a heavy heart, I announce the death of our Holy Father, Pope Francis. His life was one of tireless service, compassion, and faithfulness to the Gospel.”
Simple Final Wishes Honored
True to his humble nature, Pope Francis requested a modest burial. His body will lie in state at St. Peter’s Basilica before his funeral, scheduled for Wednesday, April 23. Vatican officials confirmed that the rites would emphasize spiritual reverence over ceremonial grandeur.
Global Mourning and Tributes
World leaders and citizens across continents are mourning the Pope’s passing. Nigerian President Bola Tinubu described his death as “a sacred return to his maker,” praising him as a voice for the poor. U.S. Vice President JD Vance noted the Pope’s declining health during their Easter encounter and expressed sorrow. Leaders from France, Israel, Spain, Iran, India, and beyond honored his global legacy of peace, justice, and compassion.
In Paris, the bells of Notre-Dame Cathedral tolled 88 times—one chime for each year of the Pope’s life.
Search for a Successor Underway
With Pope Francis’ death, the Church has entered the “sede vacante” period, which marks the vacant seat of the papacy. Cardinals eligible to vote will soon gather in the Sistine Chapel for the secretive conclave to elect a new Pope.
Among the leading candidates are:
- Cardinal Peter Turkson (Ghana)
- Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle (Philippines)
- Cardinal Pietro Parolin (Italy)
- Cardinal Matteo Zuppi (Italy)
- Cardinal Raymond Burke (USA), among others.
Pope Francis’ nearly 12-year papacy was defined by simplicity, reform, interfaith outreach, and unwavering support for marginalized communities. His death leaves a deep void in the hearts of millions worldwide.
