VATICAN CITY – In a historic and somber moment for the Catholic Church, Pope Francis died early Monday morning, April 21, 2025. The Pope Francis Death was confirmed by the Vatican just after 6:30 AM local time, ending the decade-long papacy of Jorge Mario Bergoglio, widely known as Pope Francis or Papa Francisco. Pope Francis’ death has left billions mourning across the globe, as questions about who will be the next pope begin to surface in earnest.
When Did Pope Francis Die?
What time did Pope Francis die? According to an official statement from the Holy See, Pope Francis died at 4:44 AM CET at Casa Santa Marta, his residence within Vatican City. The pope died 2025 on Easter Monday, a significant and symbolic day in the Catholic liturgical calendar, prompting many to ask, “Did the pope die on Easter?” Although he passed after Easter Sunday, the coincidence has stirred conversation across Catholic communities and social media platforms.
How Did Pope Francis Die?
The pope’s cause of death was attributed to complications from a stroke, compounded by longstanding health issues that had plagued the current pope in recent years. Medical professionals at the Vatican confirmed that Pope Francis’ health had been deteriorating since late 2024, prompting increased speculation over who will succeed Pope Francis.
The official Pope Francis death time and date have now become a point of reflection and sadness for many who admired his progressive stance on climate change, interfaith dialogue, and economic justice.
How long did he serve as Pope?
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For those asking, “How long was Pope Francis pope?”, he served for over 12 years. He was elected on March 13, 2013, succeeding Pope Benedict XVI, who had resigned—a rare occurrence in Church history. When did Pope Francis become pope? The answer traces back to his historic election in the Sistine Chapel during a dramatic conclave, where he became the first Jesuit pope, the first from South America, and the first non-European pope in over 1,200 years.
Who Was Pope Francis?
Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Jorge Mario Bergoglio was known for his humility and dedication to the poor. Before becoming the pontiff, he served as the Archbishop of Buenos Aires. Widely referred to as Papa Francisco, he brought a pastoral style that contrasted with his predecessors. Despite constant questions like “Pope Francis wife?”, it’s important to note that Catholic popes are celibate, and Pope Francis never married.
At age 88, the pope died leaving behind a legacy that will be dissected for years to come. His papacy, while controversial at times, emphasized mercy, inclusivity, and a modernized vision for the Catholic Church.
What Happens When the Pope Dies?
The death of Pope Francis has triggered the sede vacante, or “empty seat” period, during which the Church has no pope. What happens when the pope dies? According to tradition, the College of Cardinals will convene in a conclave inside the Sistine Chapel to elect the new pope.
When will the conclave begin? Church officials have stated that the conclave pope proceedings will likely commence within 15 to 20 days, meaning a new pope 2025 could be elected by mid-May.
Who Will Be the Next Pope?
So who will be the next pope? While it is too early for definitive answers, several next pope candidates have emerged as frontrunners. Among them:
Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle of the Philippines is admired for his charisma and global appeal.
Cardinal Robert Sarah of Guinea, known for his conservative views.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican Secretary of State, a seasoned diplomat.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell, an American with considerable Vatican influence.
Cardinal Timothy Dolan of New York, another potential candidate from the U.S.
The question of who is likely to be the next pope remains open, but speculation is mounting rapidly across news outlets and religious circles. Betting platforms have already released next pope odds, with Cardinal Tagle currently leading the polls.
The Pope Francis Funeral
The Pope Francis funeral is scheduled to take place on Friday, April 25, at St. Peter’s Basilica. Dignitaries, world leaders, and faithful pilgrims from every continent are expected to attend. Among the confirmed attendees are King Charles, Nancy Pelosi, and the Dalai Lama. Where will Pope Francis be buried? He will be laid to rest in the Vatican Grottoes, beneath St. Peter’s Basilica—alongside previous popes such as Pope John Paul II.
A World in Mourning
As the world grapples with the pope death, tributes have poured in from across the globe. Catholic networks like EWTN, global outlets like BBC News, and American networks like Associated Press have all released special coverage. Hashtags like #RIPPopeFrancis, #PapaFrancisco, and #PopeFrancisDied have been trending on social media.
In Argentina, thousands gathered in Buenos Aires for a candlelight vigil, honoring the first Argentine pope. The faithful, many in tears, expressed their sorrow and gratitude for his leadership.
Legacy of Pope Francis
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Throughout his papacy, Pope Francis advocated for marginalized communities, addressed the climate crisis, and sought to modernize a Church facing declining numbers and increasing secularism. Quotes such as “Who am I to judge?” regarding LGBTQ individuals, and “The Earth is our common home,” exemplify his humanistic approach.
Though controversial at times, particularly regarding his stance on tradition and doctrine, Pope Francis remained immensely popular among everyday Catholics. Catholic Church Pope Francis leaves behind a complex legacy that will be analyzed for generations.
What’s Next for the Church?
As the Church prepares for the papal conclave, millions are wondering who becomes the next pope, and when will a new pope be elected. The conclave could take days or even weeks, as the College of Cardinals deliberates. How do they pick a new pope? Through secret ballots, prayer, and consensus—until white smoke rises from the Sistine Chapel, signaling the election of a new pope.
For now, the world pauses in reflection. The death of Pope Francis not only marks the end of a transformative papacy but also sets the stage for the future of Catholicism in an increasingly complex world.
Rest in Peace, Pope Francis.
March 13, 2013 – April 21, 2025.
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