Sad News, Pope Francis Passes Away a Day After Easter

Kapanlagi.com - Catholics and the international community are in mourning over the passing of Pope Francis at the age of 88, which was officially announced by the Vatican on Easter Monday morning, April 21, 2025. The departure of this leader of Catholics occurred less than 24 hours after his appearance at the Easter celebration in St. Peter's Square, Vatican.

At that time, Pope Francis still managed to convey the message "Happy Easter" from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica with a smile and a wave to the crowd gathered in the square. Although his greeting was read by an aide due to his weakened physical condition, his presence became a symbol of hope for millions of Catholics around the world.

However, shortly after that final public appearance, the Vatican confirmed that Pope Francis passed away at 07:35 local time at his residence in Casa Santa Marta, closing a decade of leadership filled with reform and love for the oppressed. Here is the complete news regarding the passing of Pope Francis.

1. Pope Francis Passed Away at Casa Santa Marta at the Age of 88

Pope Francis took his last breath on Easter Monday morning, April 21, 2025, at his official residence, Casa Santa Marta, Vatican, at the age of 88 after previously showing declining health in recent months.

This sad news was conveyed by Cardinal Farrell who stated that the Pope "has returned to the house of the Father" and dedicated his entire life to serving God and the Church with love and devotion to the poor and marginalized.

The Pope's departure marks the end of a historic era in the Catholic Church, filled with a spirit of change, empathy for the marginalized, and a humanistic approach that transcends faith.

"Dear brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the passing of our Holy Father Francis. 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 God and His Church," said the Catholic representative in the Vatican, Cardinal Farrell, quoting the BBC.

2. The Last Appearance of Pope Francis at the Easter Celebration 2025

One day before his passing, Pope Francis appeared in St. Peter's Square to bless thousands of Catholic faithful during the Easter moment, sitting in a wheelchair and raising his hand to greet the congregation who responded with applause.

During the event, although he did not deliver a speech directly, the Pope conveyed his "Happy Easter" wishes in a soft voice and warm smile, creating an emotional moment for those present.

After the blessing was given, the procession continued with a parade around the square, where the Pope stopped several times to bless babies brought close, marking his gesture of compassion until the end of his life.

"Dear brothers and sisters, Happy Easter," said the Pope as he appeared in St. Peter's Square, Vatican, yesterday.

3. The Pope's Funeral Ceremony Will Be Held Simply According to His Wishes

Unlike previous papal traditions, Pope Francis has established that his funeral will be conducted simply without the grand ceremony that typically involves three coffins and public display.

His body will be buried in a plain wooden coffin lined with zinc and will not be placed on a catafalque for public viewing, but it will remain open for pilgrims who wish to pay their last respects.

The burial location will not be inside the Vatican, but rather at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome, making him the first pope in over a century to be buried outside the Vatican complex.

4. The Historical Legacy of Pope Francis as the Pope from the Southern Hemisphere

Pope Francis makes history as the first pope from the Southern Hemisphere, as well as the first pope from Latin America and the Jesuit order, marking a significant change in the tradition of selecting the highest leaders of the Catholic Church.

With a background as Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio from Argentina, he brings a spirit of reform and a more inclusive pastoral approach to the church, including a strong concern for immigrants, the environment, and social justice.

During his leadership since 2013, he is known not only by Catholics but also admired across religions for his universal messages of peace, solidarity, and love for all humanity.

5. The International Community Expresses Condolences and Final Tributes

Condolences have poured in from all corners of the world, including from world leaders such as French President Emmanuel Macron who referred to him as a "humble person" and Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof who called him a "role model for Catholics and non-Catholics."

Pope Francis was honored as a spiritual and moral figure who brought messages of hope and peace in a world often shrouded in division and conflict, making his passing a great loss for all of humanity.

The tribute procession will soon begin in Rome, with thousands of people expected to attend to pay their final respects to the figure they have loved and respected for over a decade.

6. Questions and Answers Related to the Death of Pope Francis

1. When and where did Pope Francis pass away?

Pope Francis passed away on Monday, April 21, 2025, at Casa Santa Marta, Vatican, at the age of 88.

2. What was the cause of Pope Francis's death?

This has not been officially announced, but previously the Pope was known to have experienced several health issues and declining mobility.

3. Where will Pope Francis be buried?

He will be buried at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, not within the Vatican as per previous tradition.

4. Who will succeed Pope Francis?

The Pope's successor will be chosen through a conclave by the Cardinals in the near future according to Catholic Church procedures.

5. What is Pope Francis's greatest legacy?

His greatest legacy is his gentle pastoral approach, support for the poor, Vatican reform, and global calls for environmental protection.

(kpl/frr)