Pope Francis died on Easter Monday, April 21 at the age of 88, at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta. Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, announced the Pope’s passing, saying, “Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis.”

Health Background
The Pope had been in poor health for some time, suffering from chronic lung damage due to a portion of his lung being removed in his youth. He was hospitalized at the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital on February 14, 2025, for bronchitis, which later developed into bilateral pneumonia. After a 38-day hospital stay, he returned to the Casa Santa Marta to continue his recovery.

Funeral Arrangements
Pope Francis had requested that his funeral rites be simplified and focused on expressing the faith of the Church in the Risen Body of Christ. According to Archbishop Diego Ravelli, Master of Apostolic Ceremonies, the late Pope wanted the funeral to emphasize his role as a pastor and disciple of Christ, rather than a powerful person of this world. An updated edition of the liturgical book for papal funeral rites, approved by Pope Francis in April 2024, will guide the funeral Mass.

Legacy
The Pope’s death marks the end of an era for the Catholic Church. Throughout his papacy, Pope Francis was known for his commitment to the values of the Gospel, particularly in serving the poorest and most marginalized. As Cardinal Farrell said, “His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of His Church.”