
The Vatican has confirmed the death of Pope Francis, who dedicated his life to serving the Church and the poor. His funeral rites are being planned.
Monday, April 21, 2025 – Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, announced the death of Pope Francis from the Casa Santa Marta in Vatican City. Pope Francis, whose health had been in decline, passed away at 7:35 AM that morning. In a heartfelt message, Cardinal Farrell described the Pope’s unwavering service to the Lord and his commitment to the poorest and most marginalized. “His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of His Church,” he stated, adding that Pope Francis’ legacy would live on as an example of universal love and courage in the faith.
Pope Francis, aged 88, had been in hospital since February 14, 2025, following a severe bout of bronchitis. His condition worsened in mid-February, leading to a diagnosis of bilateral pneumonia. Despite his return to the Casa Santa Marta to recover, his health continued to decline. He had a history of respiratory illnesses, with a lung surgery in 1957 and other ailments later in life, which had affected his ability to travel and perform duties.
Matteo Bruni, Director of the Holy See Press Office, later confirmed that Pope Francis’ body would be transferred to St. Peter’s Basilica on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, to allow the faithful to pay their respects. The ceremony to confirm his death and place his body in a coffin took place that evening in the chapel of the Casa Santa Marta.
On Monday night, the first General Congregation of Cardinals began, where a date for the funeral will be determined. Archbishop Diego Ravelli revealed that Pope Francis had requested simpler funeral rites, focusing on the Church’s faith in the Resurrection of Christ, rather than worldly honours. This aligns with the updated edition of the Ordo Exsequiarum Romani Pontificis, approved by Pope Francis in April 2024.
Source: Vatican News