The pope’s death aged 88 was confirmed by Cardinal Kevin Farrell this morning, April 21.
Bells tolled in church towers across Rome after the announcement by the senior Vatican official.
The announcement was read from the chapel of the Domus Santa Marta, where Francis lived, and it said: “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,″ he said.
“He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with faithfulness, courage, and universal love, especially for the poorest and most marginalised.
“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 God, One and Tribune.″
When was Pope Francis’ last public appearance before death?
Pope Francis suffered from chronic lung disease and had part of one lung removed as a young man.
He has been suffering from ill health in recent years and was admitted to Gemelli Hospital on February 14 for a respiratory crisis that developed into double pneumonia.
Pope Francis died on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88 at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta. pic.twitter.com/jUIkbplVi2
— Vatican News (@VaticanNews) April 21, 2025
He spent 38 days there, which was the longest hospital stay of his 12-year papacy.
Pope Francis’ last public appearance came on Easter Sunday, just a day before his death.
He emerged to bless thousands of people in St Peter’s Square in Vatican City, which drew wild cheers and applause.
Tributes pour in after death of the Pope
Many have paid tribute to Pope Francis after his death aged 88.
Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof paid tribute to Francis, saying the Pope “was in every way a man of the people”.
He wrote on X, formerly Twitter: “The global Catholic community bids farewell to a leader who recognised the burning issues of our day and called attention to them.
“With his sober way of life, acts of service and compassion, Pope Francis was a role model for many – Catholics and non-Catholics alike. We remember him with great respect.”
European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen remembered Francis as an inspiration for the entire world, not just Christians.
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“Today, the world mourns the passing of Pope Francis,” she wrote on X.
“He inspired millions, far beyond the Catholic Church, with his humility and love so pure for the less fortunate.
“My thoughts are with all who feel this profound loss. May they find solace in the idea that Pope Francis’ legacy will continue to guide us all toward a more just, peaceful and compassionate world.”
