Pope Francis passes away at 88

PanARMENIAN.Net - Pope Francis, the first Latin American leader of the Roman Catholic Church, has died at the age of 88, the Vatican announced on April 21, 2025. Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Vatican camerlengo, stated that the Pope passed away at 7:35 a.m., following complications from double pneumonia.

Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina, Francis was elected pope on March 13, 2013, after the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI. Known for his humility and commitment to social justice, he chose to reside in a communal guesthouse rather than the traditional papal apartments. His papacy was marked by efforts to reform the Church, promote interfaith dialogue, and advocate for marginalized communities.

In February 2025, Pope Francis was hospitalized at Rome's Gemelli Hospital due to bronchitis, which developed into double pneumonia. During his 38-day hospital stay, he experienced four respiratory crises, two of which were life-threatening. After being discharged on March 23, he made only one public appearance and continued to perform limited duties, including meetings with King Charles III and U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance .

Cardinal Farrell remarked, "He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with faithfulness, courage, and universal love, especially for the poorest and most marginalized."

The Easter Mass was conducted without Pope Francis' participation, with Cardinal Angelo Comastri leading the service in St. Peter's Square.