By: Christian Herald
Published: Monday, April 22, 2025
Vatican City — The Vatican confirmed early Monday morning that Pope Francis, the 266th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church, died peacefully in his residence at the Apostolic Palace. He was 88.
The news sent shockwaves through the global Christian community as millions mourn the loss of a man who spent his papacy advocating for compassion, humility, and justice for the marginalized. The Vatican Press Office stated that the Pope passed away from complications related to a longstanding heart condition.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis was elected to the papacy in March 2013 following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI. He was the first Jesuit pope, the first from the Americas, and the first non-European pope in over 1,200 years.
In his 12-year pontificate, Pope Francis became a symbol of simplicity and reform. He declined traditional papal luxuries, championed environmental stewardship with his landmark encyclical Laudato Si’, and called for the Church to be a “field hospital” for the wounded.
Cardinal Angelo Rossi, Dean of the College of Cardinals, will preside over the funeral Mass, scheduled for Friday at St. Peter’s Basilica. Dignitaries, clergy, and laypeople from around the world are expected to attend. In accordance with tradition, the Vatican will enter a nine-day mourning period known as novemdiales.
President of the United States, governors, and faith leaders across Texas expressed condolences. “Pope Francis was a servant-leader, and his heart was always open to the least of these,” said Governor [Insert Name]. “His legacy will continue to inspire believers and people of goodwill.”
As the Church prepares for the next conclave, many reflect on the Pope’s parting words from his final public appearance last week: “May the Lord bless you. And may you never forget to pray for me.”