Vatican City, April 21, 2025 — The Vatican has confirmed the death of Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 88 due to complications arising from bilateral pneumonia. The news was officially announced at 7:35 a.m. by Cardinal Kevin Joseph Farrell, the Camerlengo, who now temporarily assumes administrative responsibilities of the Holy See.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis was elected in 2013, becoming the first Jesuit Pope and the first from the Americas. His papacy was marked by a deep commitment to social justice, inclusion, and care for the marginalized. He will be remembered for his humility, progressive outreach, and historical gestures—like opening the Holy Door at Rebibbia prison as part of the Jubilee 2025 celebrations, symbolizing hope and redemption for all, including prisoners.
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With the Pope’s passing, the Vatican has entered a period known as Sede Vacante (“vacant seat”). All papal functions are suspended, and governance shifts to the College of Cardinals under the supervision of the Camerlengo. The papal ring—known as the Fisherman’s Ring—will be destroyed, signaling the end of Pope Francis’ pontificate.
His body will lie in state at St. Peter’s Basilica, where mourners from around the world are expected to pay their final respects. The funeral will be held within the next four to six days.
Within 15 to 20 days, a conclave will be convened in the Sistine Chapel, gathering all cardinals under the age of 80 to elect the next Pope. The process, held in strict secrecy, requires a two-thirds majority vote. When a new Pope is elected, white smoke will rise from the Sistine Chapel and the announcement will be made with the traditional “Habemus Papam” from the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica.
Jubilee 2025 Continues in His Honor
Despite the solemn moment, Vatican officials have confirmed that the major religious events of Jubilee 2025 will go ahead as planned. The Grand Procession in Rome scheduled for May 17 will be held in honor of Pope Francis’ legacy. Notably, it will feature religious icons such as the Virgen de la Esperanza of Málaga and El Cachorro of Seville, joined by more than 2,000 faithful.
The images will be transported from Spain to Rome by road and sea, and the 3.75 km procession will culminate in a special liturgical act at St. Peter’s Basilica.
A Legacy of Compassion and Change
Pope Francis leaves behind a transformative legacy—one rooted in compassion, reform, and the belief that the Church must walk with the people. His efforts to bridge religious divides, champion climate action, and humanize the institution will shape the Catholic Church for generations to come.
As the world mourns, millions reflect on the life of a Pope who never stopped challenging the status quo and whose final days were still devoted to spiritual unity.
