Pope Francis, the People’s Pope, Dies at 88

By Dominica Bernhard

The Catholic Church and the world mourn the loss of Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. The announcement, delivered by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, confirmed that the pontiff died peacefully at 7:35 AM CEST in his residence at Casa Santa Marta, Vatican City, following a battle with double pneumonia. His death marks the end of a transformative 12-year papacy that redefined the Church’s role in a rapidly changing world.

A Life of Humility and Service

Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis rose from humble beginnings as the son of Italian immigrants to become the first Jesuit pope and the first from the Americas. Elected on March 13, 2013, as the 266th pope, he chose the name Francis, inspired by St. Francis of Assisi, signalling his commitment to simplicity, compassion, and care for the marginalized.

His papacy was marked by a focus on social justice, environmental stewardship, and interfaith dialogue. From his early decision to live in the modest Casa Santa Marta rather than the Apostolic Palace to his global travels to conflict zones like Iraq and South Sudan, Francis embodied a pastoral approach that earned him the title “the People’s Pope.” His encyclicals, Laudato Si’ (2015) on climate change and Fratelli Tutti (2020) on global fraternity, reshaped Catholic teaching for the modern era.

Final Days and a Church in Mourning

Pope Francis’s health had been a concern in recent years, with hospitalizations for respiratory issues and abdominal surgeries. In early 2025, he was admitted to Gemelli Hospital in Rome for double pneumonia, a condition that ultimately led to his passing. The Vatican’s statement described his final moments as serene, surrounded by close aides and prayers.

Tributes poured in from world leaders, religious figures, and ordinary Catholics. U.S. President [Name, if known] called him “a moral compass for our times,” while the Dalai Lama praised his efforts to foster peace. In St. Peter’s Square, thousands gathered in a candlelit vigil, reflecting on a pope who championed the poor and challenged global inequalities.

The Sede Vacante and the Path Forward

With Pope Francis’s death, the Catholic Church enters the sede vacante period, during which the Holy See is without a reigning pontiff. Cardinal Kevin Farrell, as Camerlengo, will oversee Vatican affairs until a new pope is elected. The papal funeral, expected within nine days at St. Peter’s Basilica, will draw millions, with world leaders and dignitaries in attendance. Following tradition, Francis’s body will lie in state, allowing pilgrims to pay their respects.

The conclave to elect the next pope will convene in the Sistine Chapel, where 120 cardinals under 80 will vote in secret. Speculation about Francis’s successor is already underway, with names like Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle of the Philippines and Cardinal Péter Erdő of Hungary mentioned as potential candidates. The new pope will inherit a Church grappling with issues like declining vocations, secularization, and the legacy of Francis’s progressive reforms.

A Lasting Legacy

Pope Francis leaves behind a complex and enduring legacy. His emphasis on mercy, inclusivity, and care for creation resonated with millions, but his reforms faced resistance from conservative factions within the Church. His handling of clergy abuse scandals, while improved, remained a point of contention for some critics. Yet, his ability to connect with people—whether washing the feet of prisoners or embracing refugees—made him a global symbol of hope.

As the Catholic Church prepares for a new chapter, the world pauses to honor a pope who sought to build bridges in a divided world. In the words of Francis himself, from his 2013 homily: “Let us walk together, care for one another, and care for our common home.” His voice may be silent, but his message endures.

Dominica Bernhard is a freelance writer for Veritas Expositae.  You can reach her at dominica.bernhard@veritasexpositae.com