Pope Francis, the 266th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church, passed away on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at 7:35 a.m. in his residence at Casa Santa Marta in Vatican City. He was 88 years old.

Let’s take a look at some key facts about his life and papacy:

• Early Life: Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, to Italian immigrant parents.
• Papacy: Elected in March 2013, he became the first Jesuit pontiff and the first non-European pope in over a millennium, serving for over 12 years.
• Legacy: Known for his humility, compassion, and commitment to social justice, Pope Francis emphasized the importance of mercy and pastoral care, inspiring millions worldwide.
• Reforms: He introduced several reforms, including simplifying papal funeral rites and promoting interfaith dialogue, to make the Catholic Church more inclusive and compassionate.
• Health Issues: Pope Francis faced various health challenges, including chronic lung disease, bilateral pneumonia, and knee problems, which required surgery and affected his mobility.

In his final days, Pope Francis:

• Hospitalization: Was admitted to Gemelli Hospital in Rome in February 2025 for bronchitis, which progressed to bilateral pneumonia.
• Easter Sunday Appearance: Despite his health issues, he made a surprise public appearance on Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025, to bless audiences at Saint Peter’s Square.
• Meeting with JD Vance: Met briefly with U.S. Vice President JD Vance on Easter Sunday, just hours before his passing, to exchange Easter greetings.

The exact cause of Pope Francis death is currently unknown, but it’s widely reported that he passed away due to complications from his bilateral pneumonia. His legacy continues to inspire and guide the Catholic Church and the world.