VATICAN CITY – April 21, 2025: Pope Francis, the 266th leader of the Roman Catholic Church, has passed away at the age of 88. The Vatican confirmed his death on Easter Monday at 7:35 a.m. local time in his Vatican residence, following complications from double pneumonia.
The first Jesuit and Latin American pope, Francis led the Church for 12 years, championing causes like climate action, interfaith unity, and support for the less fortunate people. Known for his humble lifestyle, he rejected luxury and lived in Casa Santa Marta instead of the Apostolic Palace.
World leaders have expressed sorrow. U.S. Vice President JD Vance called him a “holy man of peace,” while France’s President Emmanuel Macron praised his “deep humanity.”
The Vatican has begun preparations for a papal conclave to elect his successor. Cardinals from around the globe will gather in the Sistine Chapel, with a two-thirds majority needed to choose the new pope.
Pope Francis’s final public message, delivered on Easter Sunday, urged global peace and compassion. He leaves behind a legacy of reform, humility, and unwavering support for the marginalized.
Stance on Palestine
Pope Francis consistently voiced for Palestinians, urging an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and denouncing the humanitarian crisis. He called for the release of hostages and stressed the right of both Palestinians and Israelis to live in peace and dignity. Francis later called on the global community to examine whether Israel’s actions in Gaza could be classified as genocide.
Deeply connected to Gaza’s Christian community, he made nightly phone calls to a Catholic parish there, offering prayers and solidarity. Throughout his papacy, he firmly backed a two-state solution, envisioning a just and peaceful coexistence between Israel and Palestine.