In Memoriam: Pope Francis (1936–2025)
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It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, who died on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. He passed away peacefully at 7:35 a.m. in his residence at the Domus Sanctae Marthae in Vatican City, following a recent battle with double pneumonia.Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis made history in 2013 as the first Jesuit, the first Latin American, and the first pope from the Southern Hemisphere. His papacy was marked by humility, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to social justice. He championed the causes of the marginalized, advocated for environmental stewardship, and sought to reform the Church's structures to better serve its mission.Pope Francis's final public appearance was on Easter Sunday, where he addressed thousands in St. Peter's Square, offering blessings and words of hope. His unexpected passing the following day has left the global Catholic community in mourning.In accordance with his wishes, Pope Francis will be laid to rest at the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome, making him the first pope since 1903 to be buried outside the Vatican. The Vatican has announced that the funeral rites will commence in the coming days, followed by a conclave to elect his successor.
Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen.Pope Francis BiographyPope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, was the first pope from the Americas and the first Jesuit to lead the Catholic Church. Before his election as pope on March 13, 2013, he served as Archbishop of Buenos Aires, where he was known for his humility, simple lifestyle, and dedication to the poor.Raised in a family of Italian immigrants, he studied chemistry before entering the seminary and joining the Jesuits. Ordained a priest in 1969, he later became the Provincial of the Jesuits in Argentina and played a key role in guiding the Church during a period of economic and social crises in the country. When he was appointed bishop in 1992 and archbishop in 1998, he prioritized evangelization, social justice, and pastoral outreach.As pope, Francis emphasized mercy, care for the marginalized, and environmental stewardship. His papacy was marked by a call for a “poor Church for the poor,” interfaith dialogue, and reform within the Vatican. His teachings focused on compassion, the dignity of every person, and the need for a missionary Church.On April 21, 2025, Pope Francis passed away, leaving behind a legacy of love, humility, and service.