(Scypre.com) – Pope Francis, the first Latin American pontiff and a transformative figure in the Catholic Church, passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. The Vatican announced that he died at 7:35 a.m. CEST at his residence, Domus Sanctae Marthae, in Vatican City. His death followed a prolonged illness, including a recent hospitalization for double pneumonia.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis was elected in 2013, becoming the first Jesuit, the first from the Americas, and the first non-European pope in over a millennium. He chose his papal name in honor of Saint Francis of Assisi, reflecting his commitment to humility and service to the poor.
Throughout his 12-year papacy, Francis was known for his progressive stances and efforts to modernize the Church. He advocated for environmental stewardship, social justice, and inclusivity, often addressing issues like climate change, poverty, and the rights of marginalized communities. His approach earned him the moniker “The People’s Pope.”
Leaders worldwide have expressed their condolences and paid tribute to Pope Francis’s legacy. U.S. President Joe Biden described him as a transformative leader dedicated to the poor and global equity. Former President Barack Obama and other prominent figures echoed praises for Francis’s humility and advocacy for the marginalized.
King Charles III and Queen Camilla, who visited the Pope earlier in April, expressed their deep sorrow, noting their final meeting with him during his recovery from pneumonia.
In his home country of Argentina, President Javier Milei announced three days of official mourning. Leaders from various nations, including France, Poland, and Egypt, highlighted his commitment to peace and justice.
Despite his health challenges, Pope Francis remained active in his duties until shortly before his death. On Easter Sunday, he made a surprise appearance to bless the faithful in St. Peter’s Square, demonstrating his enduring commitment to his role.
His papacy was not without controversy. Critics pointed to his handling of clerical sex abuse cases and the slow pace of reforms regarding women’s roles in the Church. Nonetheless, his efforts to promote inclusivity and address global issues left a significant impact on the Catholic Church and its 1.3 billion followers worldwide.
According to his wishes, Pope Francis will be buried in the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome, making him the first pope to be interred outside the Vatican since Pope Leo XIII in 1903. His funeral is expected to take place within the next few days, with public viewings scheduled in St. Peter’s Basilica.
The Vatican has entered a period of mourning, and preparations are underway for the papal conclave to elect his successor. The conclave, comprising cardinals under the age of 80, is expected to convene between May 6 and May 11. Potential successors include Pietro Parolin, Péter Erdő, Luis Antonio Tagle, and Matteo Maria Zuppi.
Pope Francis’s death marks the end of a significant chapter in the Catholic Church’s history. His legacy of compassion, humility, and advocacy for the marginalized will continue to influence the Church and its followers for years to come.