VATICAN CITY – April 21, 2025 — Tributes from world leaders, religious figures, and millions of faithful have begun to pour in following the death of Pope Francis, who passed away peacefully at 7:35 a.m. Monday morning at the age of 88. The Vatican confirmed the news through Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the camerlengo, who described the late pontiff as a “true disciple of the Lord Jesus” who lived a life of “faithfulness, courage, and universal love.”
Pope Francis has died.
— AJ+ (@ajplus) April 21, 2025
He dedicated himself to marginalized people – especially refugees – as the world’s politicians fought culture wars.
Here’s how the first Pope from the Global South changed the narrative: pic.twitter.com/aThNX66pJv
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen was among the first to offer condolences, writing in a heartfelt post on social media: “Today, the world mourns the passing of Pope Francis. He inspired millions, far beyond the Catholic Church, with his humility and love so pure for the less fortunate. May his legacy continue to guide us toward a more just, peaceful, and compassionate world.”
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, ascended to the papacy in 2013 and quickly became known for his advocacy for the poor, migrants, and environmental justice. Early in his tenure, he recalled how a fellow cardinal embraced him after his election and told him, “Don’t forget the poor.” It became a defining message of his papacy.
im not religious but damn ang lungkot ng passing ni Pope Francis, he’s probably the most progressive pope we had so far. during his last days on earth, he was calling for peace and ceasefire in gaza, he’s even in favor of same sex union. ang lungkot :(( pic.twitter.com/tDwvSTFOs2
— rie (@vsgyaki) April 21, 2025
Throughout his leadership, the Pope challenged global inequality and the excesses of capitalism, calling attention to the plight of refugees and the urgent need to protect the planet. His progressive stances earned him admiration not just from Catholics but also from secular and interfaith communities worldwide.
The Pope’s health had been in decline for several months. In February, he was hospitalized for bronchitis, which progressed to bilateral pneumonia. By the end of the month, he was reported to be in critical condition and showing signs of kidney failure. After nearly 40 days in the hospital, he was discharged on March 23 and instructed to undergo a two-month rest period with ongoing treatment for a fungal lung infection.
Despite his condition, Pope Francis made a final public appearance on Easter Sunday, waving from the balcony of St Peter’s Basilica to thousands gathered in St Peter’s Square. From his wheelchair, he greeted the crowd with a simple message: “Dear brothers and sisters, Happy Easter.” In a touching moment, he blessed several infants as he was wheeled around the square.
The Catholic Church now enters a period of mourning, with preparations underway for a conclave to elect his successor. As the world remembers Pope Francis, his enduring commitment to humility, justice, and mercy continues to resonate across continents.