Aasai

Pope Francis, the head of the Roman Catholic Church, has passed away on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. The Vatican confirmed his death after a prolonged battle with double pneumonia, which kept him hospitalized for over a month.

"Pope Francis died on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88 at his residence in the Vaticans Casa Santa Marta," the Vatican News tweeted.

The pontiff had been admitted to Romes Gemelli Hospital on February 14, 2025, for bronchitis, which worsened into bilateral pneumonia. His condition became critical as he suffered from acute respiratory failure, requiring procedures like bronchoscopies to clear mucus buildup and the use of non-invasive ventilation.

After a five-week hospital stay, Pope Francis was discharged on March 23, 2025. He made his first public appearance from the hospital window, offering a blessing to his followers. Just a few days before his passing, he met with U.S. Vice President JD Vance in what marked his first significant meeting since his hospitalization.

Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in 1936, Pope Francis became the leader of the Catholic Church in 2013, making history as the first pope from the Americas and the first Jesuit pope. His papacy was marked by a strong focus on social justice, environmental issues, and church reform. He has been a vocal advocate for migrants, decried economic inequality, and supported greater inclusivity within the Church.

Pope Francis had long struggled with respiratory issues due to a lung infection from his youth, which led to part of his lung being removed. In recent years, his health was further challenged by chronic knee problems and recurring infections, including a hernia that required surgery in 2023. Despite these health challenges, he continued his work, leading the Catholic Church with humility and progressive ideals.

The world now mourns the loss of a pope who endeared himself to many with his compassion and progressive vision.