Pope Francis has died at the age of 88, the Vatican confirmed on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025. His passing occurred peacefully at his residence in Casa Santa Marta. The news stunned Catholics and non-Catholics alike, marking the end of a papacy remembered for its humility, bold reforms, and unwavering compassion.

Vatican News released a serene image in memoriam with the simple inscription, “Pope Francis, 1936–2025.” His death comes just weeks after he made a surprising and emotional appearance in St. Peter’s Square—
a moment now seen as his silent farewell to the world.

The Pope’s health had been deteriorating in recent months, raising global concern. His final public appearance, though brief, was powerful—a symbolic gesture from a man whose influence reached far beyond the walls of the Vatican. As tributes pour in from leaders, clergy, and ordinary people around the globe,

many reflect on his legacy: a voice for the poor, a bridge between faiths, and a leader unafraid to challenge tradition. The Vatican has announced that preparations for his funeral and the selection of his successor will begin immediately, as the world mourns the loss of one of the most beloved spiritual figures of the 21st century.