Vatican City – April 21, 2025:
With deep sorrow and reverence, Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, officially announced the death of Pope Francis, who passed away at 7:35 AM on Monday at his Vatican residence, Casa Santa Marta, after a prolonged battle with respiratory illness. He was 88 years old.
In a solemn message delivered at 9:45 AM, Cardinal Farrell said:
"Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. 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."
The late Jorge Mario Bergoglio, known globally as Pope Francis, had been admitted to Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital on February 14, 2025, following a prolonged episode of bronchitis. His condition worsened when he was diagnosed with bilateral pneumonia on February 18, and although he returned to the Vatican after 38 days of hospitalization, his health continued to decline.
Pope Francis had long suffered from respiratory complications, dating back to a 1957 operation in Argentina during which part of one lung was removed due to a serious infection. These vulnerabilities persisted throughout his life, frequently affecting his ability to travel and carry out certain public duties.
In a significant moment of foresight, Pope Francis approved a revised edition of the papal funeral rites—the Ordo Exsequiarum Romani Pontificis—in April 2024, which will guide the upcoming funeral Mass. The new edition emphasizes simplicity, humility, and a focus on the hope of resurrection, in keeping with the late Pontiff’s wishes.
Archbishop Diego Ravelli, Master of Apostolic Ceremonies, confirmed that Pope Francis had asked for “a simplified funeral that reflects the faith of the Church in the Risen Body of Christ.” Under the updated rite, the Pope’s body will be moved to the chapel where death is officially ascertained before being placed into the coffin, avoiding the traditional public viewing in his private room.
“The renewed rite,” said Archbishop Ravelli, “seeks to emphasise even more that the funeral of the Roman Pontiff is that of a pastor and disciple of Christ, and not of a powerful person of this world.”
The Vatican has yet to announce the exact date of the funeral, but preparations are expected to follow the revised protocol closely, marking a profound moment of reflection and mourning for Catholics across the globe.
(This story is published from a syndicated feed)