News Rendezvous

Pope Francis, the 266th leader of the Roman Catholic Church and the first pontiff from Latin America, passed away at the age of 88 on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025. He died at 7:35 a.m. in his residence at Casa Santa Marta in Vatican City, following complications from double pneumonia.

Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in 1936, Francis was elected pope in March 2013 after the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI. His papacy was marked by a commitment to humility, social justice, and outreach to marginalized communities. He was known for his efforts to reform the Church, including addressing clerical abuse, promoting financial transparency, and advocating for environmental stewardship.

In his final public appearance on Easter Sunday, Pope Francis called for peace in conflict zones, particularly highlighting the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. His death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from global leaders, who have praised his compassion and dedication to the poor and voiceless.

Honoring his wishes for simplicity, Pope Francis will be buried in a single wooden casket at the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome, diverging from traditional papal burial practices. The Vatican will now enter a period of mourning and prepare for the conclave to elect his successor.