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6d ago

Pope Francis Dies at 88, Marking End of Historic Papacy

The Vatican confirms the pontiff's passing on Easter Monday, initiating a nine-day mourning period and preparations for the conclave to elect his successor.

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The car of U.S. Vice President JD Vance with the flag of the Holy See leaves the Vatican to reach Castel Sant'Angelo after the celebration of the Passion of the Lord as part of the Holy Week, in Rome on April 18, 2025. (Photo by Alberto PIZZOLI / AFP)
United States President Donald Trump and Wife Melania Trump meet Pope Francis, on May 22, 2017 in Vatican City, Vatican.
Pope Francis stands on the main balcony of St. Peter's basilica for the Urbi et Orbi message and blessing to the city and the world as part of Easter celebrations, at St Peter's square in the Vatican on April 20, 2025. (Photo by Tiziana FABI / AFP) (Photo by TIZIANA FABI/AFP via Getty Images)

Overview

  • Pope Francis passed away at 7:35 am on Easter Monday in his Vatican residence, Casa Santa Marta, following recent health challenges including double pneumonia.
  • Cardinal Kevin Farrell officially announced the death, praising Francis for his dedication to the Gospel and his service to the Catholic Church.
  • The Vatican has entered a nine-day mourning period, with a funeral Mass planned in St. Peter’s Square and burial at Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica, per Francis’s wishes.
  • Elected in 2013, Francis was the first Jesuit pope, the first from the Americas, and a reformist leader who emphasized social justice, environmental issues, and inclusivity.
  • A conclave will convene in the coming weeks to elect the next pope, continuing centuries-old Vatican protocols for papal succession.