VATICAN CITY—Pope Francis died on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88 at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta. 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 Pope’s body is expected to be transferred to St. Peter’s Basilica on Wednesday morning, so that the faithful may pray before his mortal remains.
The Pope was admitted to the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital on Friday, February 14, 2025, after suffering from a bout of bronchitis. After 38 days in hospital, the late Pope returned to his Vatican residence at the Casa Santa Marta to continue his recovery.
President Donald J Trump ordered American flags to be flown at half-staff Monday following the death of Pope Francis.
“Rest in Peace, Pope Francis! May God bless him and all who loved him,” President Trump posted to Truth Social.
Born in Argentina, Francis was the first Latin American pontiff.
In a statement on X, Argentine President Javier Milei wrote: “ADIÓS. Con profundo dolor me entero esta triste mañana que el Papa Francisco, Jorge Bergoglio, falleció hoy y ya se encuentra descansando en paz. A pesar de diferencias que hoy resultan menores, haber podido conocerlo en su bondad y sabiduría fue un verdadero honor para mí.
“Como Presidente, como argentino y, fundamentalmente, como un hombre de Fe, despido al Santo Padre y acompaño a todos los que hoy nos encontramos con esta triste noticia.
“QEPD.”
President Milei’s translation: “GOODBYE. With deep sorrow, I learn this sad morning that Pope Francis, Jorge Bergoglio, passed away today and is now resting in peace. Despite differences that now seem minor, having had the chance to know him in his kindness and wisdom was a true honor for me.
“As President, as an Argentine, and, fundamentally, as a man of Faith, I bid farewell to the Holy Father and stand with all those who are grappling with this sad news today.
“RIP.”
Author: Lynnwood Times Staff
