Pope Francis dies at age of 88, Vatican says

CAIRO – 21 April 2025: Pope Francis of the Vatican died at the age of 88, at his residence in the Vatican's Casa Santa Marta, according to Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber who announced the news on Monday.

"Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father. 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,” Cardinal Kevin Farrell said.

Francis, who suffered from chronic lung disease and had part of one lung removed as a young man, was admitted to Gemelli hospital on Feb. 14, 2025, for a respiratory crisis that developed into double pneumonia, said AP. He spent 38 days there, the longest hospitalization of his 12-year papacy