Pope Francis: Latest News & Updates | [2025]
Did the world truly comprehend the seismic shift Pope Francis brought to the papacy? His papacy, marked by both profound reforms and unwavering compassion, leaves an indelible mark on the Catholic Church and the global landscape.
The shadow of Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, fell heavily upon Vatican City. At the age of 88, in the Casa Santa Marta, Pope Francis breathed his last. At 9:45 AM, Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, delivered the solemn announcement from the same residence: "Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis." Before the finality of his passing, even as his health waned, the Pope continued to prepare his words for the recitation of the Angelus, a testament to his unwavering commitment to his flock.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jorge Mario Bergoglio |
| Born | December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina |
| Died | April 21, 2025, in Vatican City |
| Age at Death | 88 |
| Previous Roles | Archbishop of Buenos Aires (1998-2013), Cardinal (2001) |
| Elected Pope | March 13, 2013 |
| Papal Name | Francis |
| Nationality | Argentinian |
| Key Initiatives | Emphasis on mercy and social justice; reform of Vatican finances; addressing the sexual abuse crisis; environmental advocacy (Laudato Si') |
| Notable Characteristics | Simplicity, humility, focus on the poor and marginalized, direct communication style. |
| Quote | "Who am I to judge?" |
| Reference | Vatican Website |
The world watched as the news rippled outwards. In the United States, the sense of loss was particularly acute. The death of Pope Francis was deeply personal for many in the U.S., who felt a connection to the first pope from the Americas. The pontiff, who was elected the 266th pope on March 13, 2013, following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI, was the first Jesuit pope and the first from Latin America.
His papacy had a transformative effect. From the very beginning, he made it clear that his focus would be on the periphery the poor, the marginalized, and those on the fringes of society. He challenged the church to be more merciful and less judgmental, famously asking, "Who am I to judge?" This stance resonated deeply with a global audience, attracting both fervent admirers and those who viewed his reforms with skepticism.
The days leading up to his death were marked by growing concern. As the Pope's hospital stay entered a second week, questions mounted about his health and his ability to continue leading the Catholic Church. News from the Vatican was cautiously optimistic initially, but the reality of his advanced age and the seriousness of his condition weighed heavily on the global community.
The Vatican confirmed that Pope Francis had been diagnosed with a polymicrobial infection of the respiratory tract, diagnosed following testing "carried out over the past few days." Prior to his passing, even while in critical condition, Pope Francis remained engaged. He resumed some work activities, including calling a parish in Gaza City, a community he had kept in touch with since the war there began.
On Wednesday, February 12, 2025, despite his struggles with bronchitis, Pope Francis held his general audience in the Vatican, urging people to pray. His dedication to his duties, even in the face of illness, was emblematic of his unwavering commitment to the Catholic faithful.
The Pope's passing triggered an outpouring of grief and tributes. Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, reflecting on the loss, said: "Pope Francis touched minds and hearts and wanted to build bridges, not walls." Reports from Vatican News provided updates and information on the daily activities of Pope Francis. As the news agency reported, the body of Pope Francis was transferred to St. Peter's Basilica ahead of his funeral. The funeral, broadcast live on ABC News on Saturday, starting at 3:30 a.m. ET, offered a chance for the world to mourn the loss of a beloved figure. His lying in state was open to the public, allowing worshippers to pay their respects.
Even in his final days, the echoes of his influence continued. On Tuesday, he addressed the bishops of the United States about the countrys ongoing mass deportation of immigrants, reflecting his constant concern for the plight of those on the margins.
For those who knew and worked with him, the loss was deeply felt. Vasile Paul, a man who created a small shrine for Pope Francis in Rome, echoed the sentiment of many when he spoke of the impact the Pope had on his life. Chiara Sgreccia, who made the shrine, said, "I made it yesterday, as soon as I heard about Pope Franciss death."
Instead of appearing in person, Pope Francis prepared words to be read on his behalf at the recitation of the Angelus. In addition, the organizer of the holy year, Archbishop Rino Fisichella, celebrated the Sunday mass in his place at St. Peter's Basilica because of the Pope's poor health. He offered a special prayer for Francis from the altar before delivering the homily that the Pope had prepared.
The coverage of Pope Francis's papacy extended across the globe. Journalists like Doane, who covered terrorist attacks and breaking news across Europe, traveled with Pope Francis, bearing witness to his efforts. Erin McLaughlin of NBC News shared the highlights of the pontiffs tenure.
The legacy of Pope Francis will be complex. He initiated profound reforms, challenged traditional norms, and championed the cause of the marginalized. While his pontificate was not without its detractors, his commitment to mercy, his emphasis on social justice, and his efforts to modernize the Church leave a lasting impression. As the world mourns his passing, the impact of his papacy is sure to be debated for generations to come.
