Pope Francis: Funeral Details & Tributes - Latest Updates
What does the death of Pope Francis signify for the world, and what legacy does he leave behind? The passing of Pope Francis marks the end of an era, a pontiff who challenged traditions, championed the marginalized, and profoundly impacted the global landscape.
The Vatican announced on Tuesday, following a meeting of the College of Cardinals, that Pope Francis' funeral has been scheduled for Saturday morning at 10 a.m. in St. Peter's Basilica. The world has been in mourning since the announcement of his death on Monday, April 21, 2025, Easter Monday, at the age of 88. The news, delivered with "deep sorrow" by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Vatican Camerlengo, marked the end of a papacy that spanned twelve years and saw significant shifts in the Catholic Church's approach to social and political issues.
| 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 |
| Nationality | Argentine (before papacy); Vatican City (during papacy) |
| Papal Name | Pope Francis |
| Elected Pope | March 13, 2013 |
| Predecessor | Pope Benedict XVI |
| Successor | (To be determined) |
| Cause of Death | Stroke and Heart Failure |
| Residence at Death | Casa Santa Marta, Vatican City |
| Education | Master of Arts in Philosophy, Pontifical Catholic University of Argentina |
| Ordination | Ordained as a Jesuit priest on December 13, 1969 |
| Notable Achievements |
|
Reference: Vatican Official Website - Biography of Pope Francis
The details surrounding the pontiff's final days emerged quickly. Francis died at 7:35 a.m. on Monday in his residence at the Vatican, as confirmed by the Vatican. The cause of death was cited as a stroke and heart failure. He had been experiencing a number of health issues in recent years, which had become increasingly apparent. The pontiff was last seen on Sunday when he gave the traditional Easter blessing from the balcony of St. Peter's. Prior to his death, the Vatican had stated that Francis, elected in 2013 as the 266th pope, had been recovering at his residence at Casa Santa Marta since his discharge in late March. He had also battled double pneumonia and mild kidney failure, according to earlier reports.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, formally announced the Pope's death. His death was also announced at 9:45 am by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, from the Casa Santa Marta. The Holy See released the death certificate, which detailed the cause of death, and images were released of the Pope lying in an open coffin ahead of the special historic ceremony. According to the reports, the funeral will take place on Saturday, April 26, in front of St. Peter's Basilica.
The passing of Pope Francis has triggered an outpouring of tributes from around the world. World leaders were quick to offer condolences. The pontiff was known for rattling the Catholic Church's conservatives and inspiring some progressives. His death has left a profound void within the Catholic Church, as well as among global leaders who often sought his counsel on moral and political matters. His death is also mourned by those outside the Catholic faith. Dale McGowan, for example, though not a Catholic, expressed a mix of emotions upon hearing the news.
The death of Pope Francis occurred on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025. This day has a particular significance for the Catholic Church and the world. It marked the culmination of a life dedicated to service, faith, and a relentless drive for positive change. The announcement of his death was broadcast by Vatican media, including a video statement released at 09:45 on the same day.
The pontiff's papacy, which began on March 13, 2013, was marked by significant reforms and a focus on social justice. He was the first Pope from the Americas and the first Jesuit to become Pope. His papacy included a series of worsening health problems in recent years, but he continued to carry out his duties until the end. He was a humble reformer who sought to make the Catholic Church more inclusive and clashed with world leaders over the rights of immigrants.
The preparations for the funeral mass are underway. A period of mourning will begin, and arrangements are being made for the funeral mass to be held in St. Peter's Basilica. The world is now turning its attention to the process of selecting the next pope, a process likely to be highly politicized. It's important to note the impact of the pontiff on the Church and the world, and his commitment to the most vulnerable people.
In his last days, Pope Francis seemed to be aware of his impending death, and was reportedly taking steps to protect his legacy. His papacy was marked by a desire to address pressing global issues. This included his stance on climate change, poverty, and his call for dialogue and understanding between different cultures and religions. He was particularly critical of economic inequality and the treatment of migrants and refugees.
The Vatican has released the first photos of Pope Francis after his death. These images show him dressed in red vestments and lying in a simple wooden coffin. He was born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
The death of Pope Francis signals a time of transition and reflection. The world will now await the election of the next pope, who will inherit a Church profoundly shaped by the legacy of Pope Francis. The funeral will be a moment of remembrance and closure for Catholics and people of goodwill worldwide.
Thousands pay their respects to the Pope as he lies in state at St
Pope Francis Thousands queue to see pontiff’s body ahead of funeral CNN
St. Peter's Basilica opens for the public to pay their respects to Pope
