Pope Francis has passed away at the age of 88 on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta. His death marks the end of a transformative papacy that prioritized humility, inclusivity, and social justice. This blog post offers an overview of his final days, legacy, and what lies ahead for the Catholic Church.
Announcement of His Passing
At 9:45 AM, Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, officially announced Pope Francis’ death. The pontiff passed away at 7:35 AM after battling respiratory illness. His final days were marked by quiet reflection and medical challenges.
Cardinal Farrell honored Pope Francis with a heartfelt message, saying, “His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of His Church.” The Church now begins mourning a leader who reshaped modern Catholicism with a heart for the marginalized.
The Final Illness
The Pope had been suffering from chronic respiratory issues for many years, worsened by age and complications from past lung surgery. On February 14, 2025, he was admitted to the Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital with bronchitis. His condition deteriorated over time, and by February 18, doctors confirmed he had bilateral pneumonia.
Despite spending 38 days in the hospital, Francis continued to make surprise public appearances after being discharged on March 23, 2025. However, his health remained fragile until his peaceful passing at Casa Santa Marta.
A Pope Who Cared and Brought Change
Pope Francis will be remembered for his efforts to bring mercy, humility, and reform to the Catholic Church. As the first pope from the Global South, he championed the poor, refugees, and the environment.
He modernized the Church’s approach to social issues, often speaking against war, inequality, and climate change. Yet, his reforms on women’s roles and LGBTQ inclusion were met with both praise and criticism, and many believe these efforts remain incomplete.
A Simple and Meaningful Farewell
In April 2024, Pope Francis personally approved a revised liturgical guide for papal funerals. His request was for a simpler, faith-focused ceremony. Archbishop Diego Ravelli emphasized that the Pope’s funeral would reflect his pastoral life—not his position.
According to Vatican plans, his body will lie in state at St. Peter’s Basilica from April 23, allowing faithful to pay their respects before the official funeral Mass.
The Upcoming Funeral
Pope Francis’ funeral will be held in St. Peter’s Square and is expected to draw world leaders, clergy, and millions of Catholics. This will be the first funeral for a reigning pope in two decades.
Unlike his predecessors, Francis chose to be buried at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, a sacred site in Rome that held deep personal meaning to him. This makes him the first pope in over 100 years to be buried outside the Vatican.
Transition of Power and Future Leadership
With his passing, the Catholic Church now enters a critical period of transition. The College of Cardinals—135 members strong—will soon enter a conclave to elect a new pope. Pope Francis had appointed nearly two-thirds of these cardinals, significantly diversifying the group.
Though there is no clear frontrunner, names being discussed include:
- Cardinal Pietro Parolin (Italy) – Former Secretary of State
- Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa (Italy) – Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem
- Cardinal Péter Erdő (Hungary) – Conservative favorite
- Cardinal Luis Tagle (Philippines) – Popular voice from Asia
- Cardinal Robert Prevost (USA) – Overseer of bishop appointments
- Cardinal Mario Grech (Malta) – Head of the synod office
- Cardinal Gérald Lacroix (Canada) – Advocate for modernization
The next conclave will reflect on Pope Francis’ legacy as they choose the next spiritual leader for over 1.3 billion Catholics worldwide.
The death of Pope Francis marks the end of a historic papacy and the beginning of a new chapter in the life of the Church. His legacy of love, reform, and humility will guide the Church as it navigates modern challenges and prepares to choose a new pope.
Let’s keep the conversation going—connect with us on social media:
PN Media
Facebook – Newton Meshack
TikTok – @mrrpoat