Pope Francis has died on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88, the Vatican announced. His death occurred at 7:35 a.m. local time at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta. Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, confirmed the news, stating, “Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father.”
Despite recent health challenges, including a prolonged hospitalization for double pneumonia earlier in the year, Pope Francis remained active in his duties. On Easter Sunday, just a day before his passing, he made a surprise appearance at St. Peter’s Square to bless the faithful and met with U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance at the Vatican.
Throughout his papacy, Francis—born Jorge Mario Bergoglio—left a lasting impact on the Catholic Church. He broke tradition by appointing women as full members of Vatican dicasteries, showed greater openness toward the LGBTQ+ community, and took bold steps on climate action. Now, as the world mourns his passing, questions arise about his cause of death and what comes next for the Church.
Below, learn more about Pope Francis’ health, the circumstances surrounding his death, and what happens next in the papal succession.
Pope Francis’ Health Battles
In mid-February 2025, Pope Francis was admitted to Gemelli Hospital in Rome, where he was initially treated for bronchitis. However, doctors soon discovered a range of more serious health complications, including a polymicrobial respiratory infection, bilateral (double) pneumonia, and kidney failure.
On February 23, the Vatican confirmed that blood tests revealed signs of kidney failure. Despite his condition, Francis remained communicative and expressed his gratitude to the public. “I have recently received many messages of affection, and I have been particularly struck by the letters and drawings from children,” he said on X. “Thank you for your closeness, and for the consoling prayers I have received from all over the world!”
By March 4, 2025, the Vatican reported that Francis was in stable condition after being given oxygen due to two episodes of respiratory failure. Officials noted that while his condition was stable, it remained “complex.”
This wasn’t the first time the late pontiff had struggled with respiratory issues. In 2023, he was hospitalized for bronchitis, and since 2022, he had relied on a wheelchair following complications from a knee condition. Earlier in life, Francis had part of one lung removed, which contributed to his ongoing respiratory vulnerabilities.
Despite these challenges, Pope Francis remained steadfast in his role and dismissed speculation in 2021 that he was planning to resign due to his age and health concerns.
How Did Pope Francis Die?
According to the death certificate released by the Vatican, he died from a cerebral stroke, followed by a coma and irreversible cardiocirculatory collapse.
What Happens When the Pope Dies?
When a pope dies, the governance of the Catholic Church temporarily shifts to the Camerlengo—currently Cardinal Farrell—who oversees the day-to-day operations of the Vatican until a new pope is elected. While Farrell does not have the authority to make doctrinal changes, he manages the Church’s administrative functions and prepares for the upcoming papal conclave, where eligible cardinals will gather to elect the next pope.
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