Pope Francis Dies at the Age of 88
Pope Francis has passed away at the age of 88.
He died on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta.
Pope Francis’ Death Confirmed by Vatican
The Vatican officially confirmed the pontiff’s death in a statement delivered by Cardinal Kevin Farrell on Monday morning.
“Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. At 7.35am this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father.”
In the same statement, the Vatican paid tribute to Pope Francis, praising his lifelong devotion to the Church and the Gospel. He was described as a beacon of faith who not only preached the word of God but embodied its values throughout his life.
“His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and His Church. He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage and universal love, especially in favour of the poorest and most marginalised. With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite merciful love of the One and Triune God.”
Also Read: Pope Francis Hospitalized in Critical Condition Following Lung Infection
Health Struggles in Final Months
In the weeks leading up to his death, Pope Francis had been battling multiple health issues. On February 14, 2025, he was admitted to the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital after experiencing bronchitis for several days. His condition worsened, and on February 18, he was diagnosed with bilateral pneumonia.
The Vatican later confirmed that he required blood transfusions due to low platelet levels—an issue associated with anaemia. Just days later, on February 22, Church officials revealed he was in critical condition following a “prolonged respiratory crisis” that required a high flow of oxygen. The following day, he was reported to be showing signs of early-stage kidney failure.
The Pope remained in hospital for the remainder of the month as doctors monitored his “complex” condition. After 38 days of treatment, he was discharged and returned to Casa Santa Marta to continue his recovery.
Despite these health setbacks, Pope Francis seemed to show signs of improvement in the days before his death. On Easter Sunday, just one day prior, he appeared in St Peter’s Square to greet the faithful.