Pope Francis has died at the age of 88, the Vatican has announced.
Pope Francis died on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88 at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta.
Known as Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio, he was elected to lead the Catholic Church in March 2013 after Pope Benedict XVI stood down.
Read full statement below:
Vatican announces Pope Francis’ death – statement in full
At 7:35 this morning (local time), the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and His Church.”
“He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage and universal love, especially in favour of the poorest and most marginalised.”
Farrell adds: “With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite merciful love of the One and Triune God.”
SOURCE: BBC
