The world is grieving as Pope Francis, the beloved leader of the Roman Catholic Church, passed away on Easter Monday at the age of 88. The Vatican confirmed his death in a heartfelt video statement, marking the end of a 12-year papacy that touched millions. Pope Francis’ death has left Catholics and global communities in mourning, with tributes pouring in from world leaders, celebrities, and ordinary people.
Pope Francis’ Death Reason
The Vatican announced that Pope Francis died of a stroke followed by irreversible heart failure. According to his death certificate, the pontiff fell into a coma before passing peacefully at 7:35 a.m. at his residence in Casa Santa Marta. His health had been frail since February, when he was hospitalized for 38 days with double pneumonia, a condition that challenged his chronic lung disease. Despite a brief recovery, his final public appearance on Easter Sunday, blessing crowds from St. Peter’s Square, hinted at his weakening state.
Pope Francis’ Age and Early Life
On December 17, 1936, a male child was born into the working-class neighbourhood of Flores, Buenos Aires, in Argentina; ill-fortune would demand his heritage later. He would attain papacy on March 13, 2013, at the age of 76, being the 266th pope, the first ever to hail from Latin America, and the first ever to be a member of the Society of Jesus.
His schooling during childhood contributed to his experience of life alongside the very poor and marginalized. In contrast to having been born from Italian migrants, he acquired a degree in technical chemistry, worked as a bouncer, and eventually became a priest.
Pope Francis’ Education
Pope Francis studied philosophy and theology and completed his education ordinarly as a Jesuit priest in 1969. His studies and his experience in teaching literature and psychology helped him reach out to the people and bring them back to the Church. It was this down-to-earth attitude that won him the title of “the people’s pope.”
Pope Francis’ Books
Loosely hanging in the background of all papal activity have remained some of the books written by the Pope: Laudato Si’, published in 2015, one in a series on caring for the environment; and Amoris Laetitia, published in 2016, one addressing the diversity of human relationship and family life.
These were books of compassion, interreligious dialogue, and social justice that spoke to the global audience, drawing both praise and equally harsh backlash from within the Church itself.
Pope Francis’ Wife
Being a Catholic priest, Pope Francis was bound by the vow of celibacy, with no wife or children. Yet he always spoke of his family fondly, from his nephew José Ignacio Bergoglio to maintaining his close family ties back in Argentina, clearly demonstrating his strong sense of attachment.
Pope Francis’ Funeral
Funeral plans for Pope Francis are ongoing, with cardinals gathering to figure out a simple service according to such wishes. In his will, the pontiff asked that he be buried in the Basilica of Saint Mary Major in Rome and not St. Peter’s, with a simple inscription to read “Franciscus.” The Vatican said that an unnamed benefactor would pay for this in keeping with his wish for humility. A funeral purported to take place any time between Friday and Sunday was expected to draw rulers from around the world to Rome, including U.S. President Donald Trump.
Pope Francis News: Global Reactions
Pope Francis’ news of death has sparked an outpouring of emotion. In Argentina, seven days of mourning were declared, with Archbishop Jorge Garcia Cuerva calling him “the pope of the poor.” Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas described him as a “faithful friend” for recognising Palestine. Social media posts on X reflect deep sorrow, with users sharing memories of his kindness and Easter blessings. However, controversy emerged when U.S. Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene posted a cryptic message, interpreted by some as disrespectful, prompting backlash.
Looking Ahead
As the Vatican prepares for a conclave to elect a new pope within 20 days, Pope Francis’ dead leaves a legacy of humility and reform. From Delhi to the Philippines, Catholics are holding vigils, celebrating his message of peace. His passing marks the end of an era, but his words— “Do not forget to pray for me”—continue to echo worldwide.
FAQs
Why was Pope Francis so famous?
Pope Francis was known for his approachable humility, for hotlining his concerns on social justice and the suffering among the poor, as well as for his dialogue and interreligious relations.
Did Popes get married?
No, Popes do not marry.
What is the reason for Pope Francis’ death?
In a statement released on Monday, the cause of death is confirmed to be cerebral stroke, coma and subsequent irreversible heart failure.
What is Pope’s real name?
The real name of Pope is Jorge Mario Bergoglio.
Why is the Pope very powerful?
The Pope’s power lies on the confluence of religious authority, world influence, and historical legacy. He, who has over 1.3 billion followers, is the spiritual head of the Catholic Church and thus wields considerable spiritual influence.
Who was the youngest pope?
The youngest-elected pope in history was Pope Benedict IX, aged around 20 years. He served in three impromptu reigns as the bishop of Rome and ruler of the Papal States between 1032 and 1048.
