Vatican City (Web Desk/Agencies): Pope Francis, the first Latin American to lead the Roman Catholic Church, passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. The Vatican confirmed the news in a video statement, marking the end of an era for the Catholic faith.
His death occurred at 7:35 am local time in Rome after a prolonged struggle with double pneumonia and a complicated lung infection.
Despite his health challenges, including low platelet counts and anemia, Pope Francis remained committed to his duties until his final weeks, where he delegated some responsibilities due to breathing difficulties.
The pontiff had been hospitalized at the Gemelli Polyclinic in Rome since February 14, 2025, receiving oxygen therapy and blood transfusions.
Over the years, Pope Francis gained global admiration for his reforms and his ability to modernize the Church.
His approach to leadership emphasized humility, social justice, environmental care, and inclusivity, which made him a beloved figure worldwide, especially among marginalized communities.
Throughout his papacy, he worked to address issues like clerical sexual abuse and advocated for interfaith dialogue, challenging traditionalist elements within the Church.
Pope Francis was born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and was elected as the 266th pope on March 13, 2013.
His tenure was often marked by both admiration and controversy, as he navigated a delicate balance between faith, politics, and the changing landscape of the modern world.
Tributes are already pouring in from across the globe, honouring his life and service.
Following his death, the Vatican announced that a conclave would be held to elect his successor.
His passing marks the end of a transformative papacy, one that shaped the Church for over a decade.
World leaders mourn death of Pope Francis
Tributes poured in from around the world on Monday following the passing of Pope Francis, with presidents, prime ministers, and global dignitaries expressing sorrow and honoring his legacy of peace, compassion, and interfaith harmony.
President Asif Ali Zardari conveyed deep grief over the death of the pontiff, praising Pope Francis for his unwavering dedication to promoting unity among different faiths and his tireless work toward peaceful coexistence.
Extending condolences on behalf of the Pakistani government and its people to the Vatican and the global Catholic community, President Zardari highlighted the late pope's efforts to uplift vulnerable communities and advocate for social justice.
He remarked that "Pope Francis was a powerful voice for peace and justice, and his efforts to bring together communities of different faiths and promote mutual understanding would always be remembered." The president added that the pope’s passing marked a significant loss not only for Christians but for everyone who valued dialogue and peace among religions.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also expressed sorrow over the pope’s demise, noting his contribution to global harmony. "Late Pope Francis was a symbol of inter-faith harmony, peace, and humanity," said the prime minister. He further stated, "Pope Francis’ recent statement on Easter calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and Palestine, and an end to the human rights violation, reflects his peace-loving personality and love for humanity."
From the United States, the White House shared a brief yet heartfelt tribute on X: "Rest in Peace, Pope Francis." The message was accompanied by photos of the pope’s past meetings with former U.S. President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance.
The latter also posted a personal message: "I just learned of the passing of Pope Francis. My heart goes out to the millions of Christians all over the world who loved him."
In the United Kingdom (UK), King Charles shared his sorrow in a statement:
"My wife and I were most deeply saddened to learn of the death of Pope Francis. Our heavy hearts have been somewhat eased, however, to know that His Holiness was able to share an Easter Greeting with the Church and the world he served with such devotion throughout his life and ministry."
French President Emmanuel Macron acknowledged the pope's humility and his strong advocacy for the vulnerable, stating:
"In this time of war and brutality, he had a sense for the other, for the most fragile."
Germany’s chancellor-in-waiting Friedrich Merz praised Pope Francis’ deep commitment to the marginalized:
"He was guided by humility and faith in God’s mercy."
Irish Prime Minister Michael Martin remembered the pope’s expression of solidarity with the oppressed and his acknowledgment of the Church’s past failures during his visit to Ireland:
"Pope Francis’ long and distinguished papacy was marked by his unwavering commitment to the principles of compassion, peace and human dignity", he said, adding, "he would be remembered for his 'expression of pain and shame' about historic child abuses in the Catholic Church during his 2018 visit to Ireland."
Russian President Vladimir Putin also extended his condolences in a message addressed to Cardinal Kevin Joseph Farrell:
"Please accept my most sincere condolences on the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis."
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi reflected on the pope's compassion and dedication:
"Pope Francis will always be remembered as a beacon of compassion, humility and spiritual courage by millions across the world.
He diligently served the poor and downtrodden. For those who were suffering, he ignited a spirit of hope. I fondly recall my meetings with him and was greatly inspired by his commitment to inclusive and all-round development. His affection for the people of India will always be cherished. May his soul find eternal peace in God’s embrace."
