VATICAN NEWS: Pope Francis Has Died, Age 88
Monday, April 21, 2025
(CNBNEWS)(APRIL 21, 2025)--Pope Francis, at the age of 88, passed away in his residence at the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta today, April 21, 2025, as confirmed by Vatican News.
A picture of Pope Francis is displayed at St. Patrick's Cathedral, Monday, April 21, 2025, in New York. — AP #PopeFrancis
At 9:45 AM, Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, made the solemn announcement from Casa Santa Marta, stating:
"Dearest brothers and sisters, with profound sorrow, I announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father. His life was entirely devoted to the service of the Lord and His Church. He exemplified the values of the Gospel with unwavering fidelity, courage, and universal love, especially for the poorest and most marginalized. We express immense gratitude for his leadership as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus and commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite merciful love of the One and Triune God."
Later on Monday, Matteo Bruni, the Director of the Holy See Press Office, informed journalists that the late Pope's body would be transferred to St. Peter's Basilica on the morning of Wednesday, April 23, 2025, allowing the faithful to honor his memory and pray before his remains.
"The translation of the Holy Father's mortal remains to the Vatican Basilica for the veneration of all the faithful will occur on the morning of Wednesday, April 23, 2025, following arrangements that will be confirmed and communicated tomorrow during the first Congregation of the Cardinals," Mr. Bruni asserted.
Pope Francis had been admitted to the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital on February 14, 2025, after suffering from bronchitis for several days. His condition worsened, leading to a diagnosis of bilateral pneumonia on February 18. After 38 days of hospitalization, the Pope returned to his residence at Casa Santa Marta to continue his recovery.