Pope Francis Dies at 88: A Shepherd of Compassion and Change Returns to the Father
Pope Francis Dies at 88: A Shepherd of Compassion and Change Returns to the Father
Pope Francis, the 266th Bishop of Rome and first Latin American to lead the Roman Catholic Church, died on Monday, 21 April 2025, at the age of 88. The Vatican confirmed his passing at his residence in Casa Santa Marta, following complications from double pneumonia.
His health had been a growing concern over recent years. Admitted to Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital on 14 February after a bout of bronchitis, his condition worsened, and he was diagnosed with bilateral pneumonia on 18 February. Though he returned to the Vatican after 38 days in hospital to continue his recovery, he ultimately succumbed to the illness.
Francis had long struggled with respiratory issues, a vulnerability stemming from a lung surgery in his twenties while in Argentina. More recently, he had canceled a planned visit to the United Arab Emirates in 2023 due to lung inflammation.
Despite his health challenges, Pope Francis remained a vibrant force in the Church. His papacy was defined by deep compassion, simplicity, and an unwavering call to serve the marginalised. A champion of interfaith dialogue, environmental protection, and the rights of migrants, he ushered in a new era of outreach and reform.
From tackling financial transparency within the Vatican to confronting the scourge of clerical abuse, Francis brought both courage and clarity to the Church’s most pressing issues. His 2015 encyclical Laudato Si’ sparked global reflection on ecological responsibility and climate justice.
In April 2024, he approved a revised edition of the papal funeral rites, reflecting his desire for humility in death as in life. “The funeral of the Roman Pontiff is that of a pastor and disciple of Christ,” said Archbishop Diego Ravelli, Master of Apostolic Ceremonies, “not of a powerful person of this world.”
At 7:35 AM this morning, Cardinal Kevin Farrell delivered a solemn message:
“At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of his Church.”
Vatican flags have been lowered in mourning as the world begins to bid farewell to a pope whose legacy is certain to echo through generations, rooted not in grandeur, but in grace.
