World Leaders, Catholics mourn Pope Francis Death at 88
Pope Francis, the first Latin American and Jesuit pope, has passed away at the age of 88 on April 21, 2025, at the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta residence. His death follows a prolonged battle with double pneumonia and respiratory complications.
A Legacy of Compassion and Reform
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires in 1936, Pope Francis ascended to the papacy in 2013, succeeding Pope Benedict XVI. Throughout his 12-year tenure, he became renowned for his humility, progressive views, and unwavering commitment to social justice. His papacy was marked by efforts to address the Church’s sexual abuse crisis, promote environmental stewardship, and advocate for marginalized communities.
Global Tributes Pour In
World leaders have expressed profound sorrow over his passing. U.S. President Donald Trump lauded Pope Francis as “one of the most consequential leaders of our time,” while French President Emmanuel Macron described him as a “global moral leader and champion for the poor and voiceless” . In Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu honored the Pope’s legacy, calling him a “champion of the underprivileged and a beacon of hope for millions” Publisher. CEO, Lahor Global Magazine. Princepaul Orobosa Agbonlahor Described the Pope as a True Man with the Heart of Pure Humility and Selfless Service for Everyone irrespective of your religion.
Funeral Arrangements and Succession
In accordance with his wishes, Pope Francis will be buried in a simple wooden casket at Rome’s Basilica of St. Mary Major, a site he held in great reverence . The Vatican has announced that a conclave will convene to elect his successor, with many cardinals appointed by Pope Francis himself, potentially influencing the direction of the Church’s future.
Sports World Honors the Pope
In a rare gesture, Serie A postponed seven football matches, including fixtures like Parma vs. Juventus and Genoa vs. Lazio, as a mark of respect following Pope Francis’s death.
Pope Francis’s passing marks the end of an era for the Catholic Church. His legacy of compassion, reform, and advocacy for the marginalized will continue to inspire and influence generations to come.
At 9:45 AM, Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, announced the death of Pope Francis from the Casa Santa Marta with these words:
“Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must 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 entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of His Church. He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage, and universal love, especially in favor of the poorest and most marginalized. With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite merciful love of the One and Triune God.”
The Director of the Holy See Press Office, Matteo Bruni, told journalists later on Monday that the late Pope’s body could be transferred to St. Peter’s Basilica on Wednesday morning, so that the faithful may pray before his mortal remains.
“The translation of the Holy Father’s mortal remains to the Vatican Basilica, for the veneration of all the faithful, may take place on the morning of Wednesday, April 23, 2025, according to the arrangements that shall be determined and communicated tomorrow, following the first Congregation of the Cardinals,” Mr. Bruni said.
The Pope was admitted to the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital on Friday, February 14, 2025, after suffering from a bout of bronchitis for several days.
Pope Francis’ clinical situation gradually worsened, and his doctors diagnosed bilateral pneumonia on Tuesday, February 18.
After 38 days in hospital, the late Pope returned to his Vatican residence at the Casa Santa Marta to continue his recovery.
