Pope Francis pa:ss:ed away on the morning of April 21, just one day after making a moving public appearance during Easter Sunday celebrations.
The Vatican officially confirmed the Pope’s death early Sunday morning. Cardinal Kevin Farrell released a statement saying, “At 7:35 a.m., the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father.”
He highlighted Pope Francis’ lifelong devotion to God and the Church, emphasizing his teachings rooted in faith, compassion, and solidarity with the poor and marginalized. The statement concluded with a prayer, entrusting the Pope’s soul to God’s boundless mercy.
The day before his d3ath, on April 20, the 88-year-old Pontiff made his final public appearance from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, where he delivered a poignant Easter message, which was read aloud by an aide due to his declining health.
His last speech was centered on peace and mutual respect, underscoring the essential nature of freedoms—religion, thought, and expression—for a peaceful world.
He spoke of the suffering in Gaza, especially among Christians, condemning the devastating impact of the conflict and describing the situation as a severe humanitarian crisis. “There is an alarming thirst for violence and d3ath in the many ongoing wars around the globe,” he said.
He expressed his deep sympathy for both the Israeli and Palestinian people, urging an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages, and support for civilians suffering from hunger and despair. “A starving people dreams of peace,” he declared.
In addition to the Middle East, Pope Francis also addressed the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, calling on all sides to seek a just and enduring resolution.
According to The Independent, the Pope had recently been hospitalized due to severe respiratory issues, which developed into double pneumonia. He spent 38 days in Rome’s Gemelli Hospital and was also diagnosed with bronchitis and kidney complications.
Following the announcement of his d3ath, tributes poured in from around the world, including a message from King Charles III.
The Catholic Church will now observe nine days of mourning in honor of Pope Francis. After this period, the process to elect a new Pope—known as the papal conclave—will begin. The College of Cardinals, made up of the Church’s senior leaders, will wait 15 days before convening to vote. Of the current 252 cardinals, 138 are eligible to participate in the election of the next Pope.
