The world woke up on April 21, 2025, to the heartbreaking news of Pope Francis’s death. At the age of 88, the head of the Roman Catholic Church passed away at 7:35 AM CEST in his Vatican residence at Casa Santa Marta. His death marked the end of a transformative papacy that lasted more than twelve years, beginning on March 13, 2013, when he became the 266th Pope of the Catholic Church.

Photo Credit: AP News

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, was not only a religious leader but also a global statesman and moral voice. His leadership broke historical norms—being the first Jesuit pope, the first from Latin America, and the first non-European pope in over 1,200 years. His passing leaves a void not only in the Catholic Church but also on the broader world stage, where he was a consistent advocate for social justice, environmental care, and global peace.

The purpose of this article is to provide a clear and comprehensive account of how Pope Francis passed away, clarify the official cause of his death, address misinformation circulating online, and explore the impact of his passing on the global Catholic community and the world at large.

Read Also: When was Pope Francis elected? Wife, Daughter, Net Worth & More

Who Was Pope Francis?

Early Life: Jorge Mario Bergoglio

Pope Francis was born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, to Italian immigrant parents. Raised in a working-class neighbourhood, young Jorge grew up with a deep sense of humility and empathy—qualities that would define his leadership. Before joining the priesthood, he briefly worked as a bouncer and a janitor and even studied chemistry.

His path to the Church began at the age of 21, when he entered the Society of Jesus, also known as the Jesuits. He was ordained a priest in 1969 and eventually became the Archbishop of Buenos Aires in 1998. As a cardinal, he was known for his modest lifestyle—choosing to live in a small apartment and taking public transportation rather than using official vehicles.

Rise to the Papacy

Following the historic resignation of Pope Benedict XVI in 2013, Jorge Bergoglio was elected pope on March 13, 2013, taking the name Francis in honour of St. Francis of Assisi, a symbol of humility, peace, and love for the poor. His election was groundbreaking in multiple ways:

• First Jesuit pope
• First Latin American pope
• First non-European pope in more than a millennium

His 12-Year Papacy and Accomplishments

Pope Francis’s reign was marked by:

• A focus on poverty alleviation, marginalised communities, and interfaith dialogue
• Landmark encyclicals like Laudato Si’, which emphasised environmental stewardship
• Reforms within the Vatican bureaucracy, including efforts to combat sexual abuse and promote transparency
• Advocacy for LGBTQ+ inclusion, greater roles for women in the Church, and addressing the global refugee crisis

Despite facing resistance from conservative factions, Pope Francis remained steadfast in his mission to bring the Church closer to the people and address the most pressing moral issues of our time.

How Did Pope Francis Pass Away: Timeline Leading to His Death

Recent Health Concerns

Over the past few years, concerns about Pope Francis’s health have become increasingly frequent. He had previously undergone colon surgery in 2021, and recurring respiratory problems were reported, including bronchitis and asthma-related complications.

Hospitalisation for Double Pneumonia and Kidney Failure

In early April 2025, the Vatican confirmed that Pope Francis had been hospitalised due to a serious case of double pneumonia, a life-threatening condition involving infection in both lungs. Compounding the situation, the Pope also suffered from renal failure, requiring specialised care.

Despite initial signs of recovery, his condition deteriorated in mid-April, leading to increased speculation about his well-being. The Vatican kept the public updated but maintained privacy regarding the severity of his condition.

Reported Stroke Before Death

Although not officially confirmed by the Vatican, several credible sources, including Italian media and medical staff within the Vatican, reported that Pope Francis may have suffered a stroke within 48 hours of his death. This medical emergency likely contributed to his rapid decline.

Date, Time, and Location of Death

Pope Francis passed away on the morning of Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at exactly 7:35 AM CEST, at Casa Santa Marta, his chosen residence since the beginning of his papacy. The Vatican released the official statement at 9:47 AM CEST, delivered by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, who called the Pope’s final hours “peaceful and reflective.”

What Was the Cause of Pope Francis’s Death?

Medical Issues Leading Up to His Passing

Pope Francis had long been transparent about his health challenges, often referencing them publicly during his papacy. In his final year, he dealt with a series of compounding medical issues, the most critical of which were:

1. Double Pneumonia

In early April 2025, Pope Francis was diagnosed with double pneumonia, a severe lung infection affecting both lungs. This condition significantly compromised his ability to breathe and required immediate hospitalisation. Despite antibiotic treatment and respiratory support, his condition worsened due to his age and history of respiratory illnesses.

2. Kidney Failure

In addition to pneumonia, the Pope suffered from acute kidney failure. His kidneys were no longer filtering waste from his body effectively, a condition that can be fatal if left untreated. Though dialysis was reportedly administered during his hospitalisation, it did not stabilise his condition.

3. Suspected Stroke (Unofficial Reports)

While not officially included in the Vatican’s press statement, several reports from trusted medical sources within the Vatican suggested that the Pope may have experienced a minor stroke in the final days of his life. This is believed to have accelerated the deterioration of his condition.

Read Also: Biography of Pope Francis: Wife, Daughter, Net Worth & Death

Statements from the Vatican and Cardinal Kevin Farrell

Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Camerlengo (Chamberlain of the Holy Roman Church), delivered the official announcement of the Pope’s passing at 9:47 AM CEST, nearly two hours after his death. In his statement, he said:

“His Holiness Pope Francis passed away peacefully in the Lord this Easter Monday. His final hours were spent in prayer, surrounded by his closest aides, and marked by deep reflection. We mourn the loss of a shepherd who walked humbly with his people.”

The statement refrained from attributing the death to a specific cause, citing “complications due to age and declining health.”

Addressing Misinformation Online

In the hours following his death, misinformation began to circulate rapidly online, including false claims of assassination, poisoning, or covert medical malpractice. The Vatican’s press office quickly responded, urging people to rely on verified sources and official statements. Catholic media networks like Vatican News and L’Osservatore Romano published detailed obituaries that focused on his health history and the events leading to his death.

Medical professionals also weighed in to clarify that double pneumonia and renal failure in elderly patients often lead to fatal outcomes, particularly when compounded by existing chronic conditions. There was no credible evidence to support any foul play or conspiracy.

Papal Protocols After a Pope’s Death

The death of a sitting pope initiates a series of ancient yet strictly organised protocols known as the “Sede Vacante” procedures. These are outlined in the apostolic constitution Universi Dominici Gregis, which governs the period between the death of a pope and the election of a new one.

Canon Law Procedures Upon the Death of a Pope

The Camerlengo makes the first official confirmation of the Pope’s death, Cardinal Kevin Farrell, in this case. Traditionally, the Camerlengo verifies the death, retrieves the Pope’s Fisherman’s Ring, and crushes it in a symbolic gesture to prevent its misuse.

Next, the College of Cardinals is formally notified and summoned to Rome. During the “Sede Vacante” period, all papal functions cease, and governance of the Church transitions to the Cardinal Camerlengo.

Role of the Camerlengo

The Camerlengo is responsible for:

• Confirming and certifying the Pope’s death
• Securing the Apostolic Palace, the Pope’s private rooms, and papal documents
• Making funeral arrangements in consultation with the Vatican Curia
• Organising the conclave to elect the new pope

Cardinal Farrell has fulfilled this role with dignity and precision, in line with Church law.

Vatican Traditions and Mourning Process

Pope Francis’s body was transferred to St. Peter’s Basilica to lie in state, allowing the faithful to pay their final respects. Official mourning, known as “Novemdiales,” includes nine days of memorial Masses and liturgical events.

The Vatican flag was lowered to half-mast, and bells tolled across the city of Rome. Special prayer services were conducted across Catholic churches worldwide, honouring the Pope’s life and service.

Funeral Plans and Global Reactions

Official Vatican Funeral Arrangements

Pope Francis’s funeral is scheduled for April 26, 2025, in St. Peter’s Square. It will be presided over by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, the Dean of the College of Cardinals. The burial will take place in the Vatican Grottoes, where many popes before him have been interred.

As per his wishes, Pope Francis will be buried in a simple coffin, forgoing the traditional triple-coffin ritual. This final act of humility reflects his lifetime commitment to simplicity and service.

Timeline for Funeral Services

• April 22–25: Lying in state at St. Peter’s Basilica
• April 26: Funeral Mass and burial
• April 27–May 4: Novemdiales continues with daily Masses

Reactions from World Leaders and the Faithful

Across the globe, leaders and citizens alike have expressed profound sorrow at Pope Francis’s passing:

• President Joe Biden, a Catholic, called him “a moral compass for our times.”
• UN Secretary-General António Guterres praised him for his “unwavering commitment to climate justice and human dignity.”
• Leaders from other religions, including Islamic scholars, Jewish rabbis, and Hindu gurus, released statements mourning his death and acknowledging his work in interfaith harmony.

Churches and cathedrals held candlelight vigils, and millions tuned into live broadcasts from Rome to participate in the mourning.

Tributes to His Legacy

• Pope Francis is remembered as a reformer, a voice for the voiceless, and a symbol of spiritual authenticity.
• His teachings will continue to influence theology, social doctrine, and Catholic life for generations to come.

What Happens Next: The Papal Conclave

The passing of Pope Francis not only marks the end of a profound era of spiritual leadership but also sets in motion the centuries-old tradition of the Papal Conclave, during which a new pope is elected.

Explanation of the Conclave and Its Purpose

The Papal Conclave is a closed-door gathering of eligible cardinal electors—those under the age of 80—from around the world. Its purpose is to discern and elect the next Bishop of Rome, the spiritual leader of over 1.3 billion Catholics worldwide.

Held in the Sistine Chapel, the conclave is steeped in ritual:

• Cardinals are sequestered from all external communication.
• Daily votes are cast, and ballots are burned.
  • Black smoke from the chapel chimney indicates no decision.
  • White smoke signals the election of a new pope.

The conclave is both a spiritual retreat and an electoral process, combining prayer, reflection, and a voting process.

Expected Dates: May 6–11, 2025

According to Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the conclave is scheduled to begin on May 6, 2025, allowing time for:

• The completion of Pope Francis’s funeral rites
• The arrival of all eligible cardinals from around the world
• Formal meetings known as General Congregations are held to discuss Church matters and evaluate needs

The conclave is expected to last a few days, with most speculations suggesting a new pope may be elected by May 11, 2025.

Who Are the Potential Successors?

The College of Cardinals comprises 123 electors, many of whom were appointed by Pope Francis himself, likely ensuring the continuation of his progressive vision. Among the rumoured papabili (potential popes) are:

• Cardinal Matteo Zuppi (Italy): A pastoral bishop known for peace-building efforts.
• Cardinal Peter Turkson (Ghana): A prominent voice in social justice and climate issues.
• Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle (Philippines): Beloved in Asia and a strong advocate for the poor.
• Cardinal Jean-Claude Hollerich (Luxembourg): President of the Commission of the Bishops’ Conferences of the EU, known for inclusive views.

While no frontrunner has emerged, many speculate that the next pope may continue Pope Francis’s commitment to:

• Social reform
• Environmental protection
• Outreach to marginalised communities

Speculations on the Church’s Future Direction

As the cardinals gather, the Church faces major questions:

• Will the next pope continue to push for modernisation?
• Will conservative voices reclaim influence?
• What role will the Global South play in Church leadership?

The outcome of the conclave will shape the Church’s priorities in addressing contemporary issues such as:

• Clergy sexual abuse
• Gender roles within the Church
  
• Faith and science
• Youth engagement

Legacy of Pope Francis

Though Pope Francis has departed from this world, his legacy remains vibrant, enduring, and transformative.

Contributions to Interfaith Dialogue

Francis prioritised dialogue with other faiths, especially Islam and Judaism. Notable moments include:

• Signing the Document on Human Fraternity with Grand Imam Ahmed el-Tayeb in Abu Dhabi (2019)
• Visiting Iraq in 2021—the first pope to do so—where he met with top Shiite cleric Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani
• Encouraging peaceful coexistence and mutual respect between religious groups

His emphasis on “fraternity over fanaticism” inspired religious leaders globally.

Advocacy for Climate and Environmental Stewardship

In his landmark encyclical Laudato Si’ (2015), Pope Francis called for urgent global action on climate change, stating that environmental neglect was a moral issue, not just a scientific one. He pushed governments to:

• Honour their commitments under the Paris Agreement
• Transition to renewable energy
• Protect the global poor who suffer most from ecological damage

He is often referred to as “the Green Pope”, and Laudato Si’ is now a standard reference in climate policy discussions.

Social Justice and Inclusion

Francis’s voice for the voiceless echoed in nearly every continent. He advocated for:

• Immigrants and refugees
• Prisoners and the marginalised
• The LGBTQ+ community, famously saying, “Who am I to judge?”

Though his positions sometimes caused tension within Church ranks, many believe he reignited hope and relevance for millions of Catholics worldwide.

Vatican Reform and Transparency

Under his leadership, the Vatican underwent major changes:

• Streamlined its finances through the Institute for the Works of Religion
• Introduced anti-corruption guidelines
• Reformed the Roman Curia through the 2022 Apostolic Constitution Praedicate Evangelium

Francis’s push for accountability and modernisation set new expectations for how the Vatican should operate in the 21st century.

Conclusion

Pope Francis’s passing on April 21, 2025, is not merely the death of a global figure—it is the end of an era defined by compassion, reform, and radical humility. From the streets of Buenos Aires to the throne of St. Peter, his journey inspired countless individuals to embrace faith not just as tradition, but as a living, breathing commitment to love, justice, and mercy.

As the world prepares to welcome a new leader, we look back with gratitude at the life of a man who truly walked in the footsteps of Christ. Whether in his outreach to the poor, his care for the environment, or his unwavering humility, Pope Francis challenged each of us to ask: How can we serve others?

While the Church mourns, it also moves forward in faith, hopeful that the seeds Pope Francis planted will continue to bear fruit in future generations.

Suleiman Shehu

Shehu Suleiman Kayode is a decent SEO writer, poet and opinion writer on national happenings. His opinions have featured in some Nigerian National Dailies, including The Nation, PUNCH, The Ravens, and others.