Staff – April 21, 2025

Pope Francis, Beloved Pontiff, Passes at 88 After Easter Sunday

VATICAN CITY — Pope Francis, the first Latin American pontiff and a global beacon of compassion, died peacefully at 7:35 a.m. on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at his residence in Casa Santa Marta, the Vatican announced. He was 88. His passing came just hours after a poignant final appearance on Easter Sunday, where he delivered the traditional Urbi et Orbi blessing from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, delighting thousands of faithful gathered in the square.

Despite his frail health, Francis, who had battled double pneumonia and a 38-day hospitalization earlier in the year, summoned the strength to greet the crowds in his popemobile and offer his Easter message, which urged peace in conflict zones like Gaza and Ukraine. His voice, weakened by respiratory struggles, was carried by an aide, Archbishop Diego Ravelli, who read his address condemning “contempt” toward the vulnerable and calling for compassion.

In a touching final act, Francis held a brief private meeting on Easter Sunday with U.S. Vice President JD Vance, the only individual he met that day, according to the Vatican. The encounter at Casa Santa Marta lasted just minutes, with the two exchanging Easter greetings. Francis, seated in a wheelchair, gifted Vance three chocolate Easter eggs for his children, along with a Vatican tie and rosaries. “I know you have not been feeling great, but it’s good to see you in better health,” Vance said, grasping the pontiff’s hand. “I pray for you every day. God bless you.”

Vance, who clashed with Francis over immigration policies, later shared his grief on X: “I just learned of the passing of Pope Francis. My heart goes out to the millions of Christians all over the world who loved him. I was happy to see him yesterday, though he was obviously very ill.”

Francis’ death, announced by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Vatican camerlengo, marked the end of a 12-year papacy defined by humility and advocacy for the marginalized. Vatican observers noted that Francis, driven by a sense of mission, seemed to will his tired body to endure until Easter’s sacred duties were complete. “His heart was set on blessing the faithful one last time,” a Vatican source said. Only after fulfilling this final act of service did he return “to the house of the Father,” his earthly journey complete.

The Vatican has begun preparations for the conclave to elect his successor, as the world mourns a pope whose legacy of love endures.