Pope Francis, the 266th leader of the Roman Catholic Church has died at the age of 88

Pope Francis, the 266th leader of the Roman Catholic Church and the first pontiff from the Americas, has died at the age of 88. The Vatican announced that he passed away peacefully at 7:35 a.m. local time on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at his residence in Casa Santa Marta, Vatican City. ​Axios+3Catholic News Agency+3Vatican News+3

A Life of Service and Reform

Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in 1936, Pope Francis was elected to the papacy on March 13, 2013, following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI. He was the first Jesuit pope, the first from Latin America, and the first non-European pontiff in over a millennium. ​Axios+2Business Insider+2People.com+2Business Insider+2People.com+2CNN+2

Throughout his 12-year tenure, Pope Francis was known for his humility, progressive views, and commitment to social justice. He advocated for marginalized communities, addressed climate change, and called for economic reforms. He also condemned the Church’s handling of sexual abuse scandals and sought to implement reforms. People.com​

Health Challenges and Final Days

Pope Francis faced several health issues in recent years. In early 2025, he was hospitalized for a respiratory infection that developed into bilateral pneumonia and kidney complications. Despite these challenges, he continued his duties and delivered his final Easter blessing from a wheelchair on April 20, 2025. Business Insider​

Next Steps for the Church

Following his death, the Vatican has initiated the traditional mourning period, which includes nine days of official mourning and a funeral Mass in St. Peter’s Square. The College of Cardinals will convene a conclave 15 to 20 days after his death to elect a new pope. ​Reuters

Pope Francis’s legacy as a reformer and advocate for the marginalized will be remembered as the Church prepares to choose his successor.