In a very sad moment for the world and for the Catholic Church, Pope Francis passed away on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at 88 years old. The passing comes after his last public appearance on Easter Sunday, when he met with thousands of the faithful in St. Peter’s Square. Everybody’s question—Did the Pope die on Easter?—has fueled speculation concerning the meaning of his last days.
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A Final Easter Appearance
The pope had emerged on his balcony one day before he died, hugging the Easter Mass congregation. Even with his deteriorating health, he went out of his way to attend Rome’s Regina Coeli prison as part of his long-standing tradition on Holy Thursday, showing his unflinching commitment to outcasts. A touching moment came when he finally emerged on Easter Sunday, raising so many questions that questioned—was the pope already deceased on Easter as part of God’s plan?
Cause of Death and Health Problems
The Vatican has confirmed that Pope Francis had been fighting double pneumonia, a sickness that hospitalized him early this year. His condition had been frail for months, with reports showing he had developed bronchitis and respiratory issues. His Easter Monday demise left so many questions unanswered—Did the Pope die on Easter as a symbolic goodbye to his faithful masses?
Global Mourning and Tributes
In news of the death of the Pope, the globe has mourned and been flooded with tributes from everywhere on the planet. World leaders, religious leaders, and common citizens alike have responded in shock, grief, and recollections of his wisdom and grace. Vice President JD Vance, who had also met Pope Francis on his last Easter excursion, issued a heartfelt statement: “I just learned about the passing of Pope Francis.”. My heart is with the millions of Christians around the world who loved him. His legacy of compassion and courage will endure.”
In Buenos Aires, where Pope Francis once was the Archbishop, vigils erupted outside cathedrals, with thousands praying and candles being lit. The same is happening in cities around the world—from Manila to Madrid, from Nairobi to New York—as Catholics grieve the death of a widely popular spiritual leader.
What Happens Next?
On the death of the Pope, the Vatican enters customary nine-day mourning called the “Novemdiales.” There will be daily masses in tribute to Pope Francis, and flags will be flown half-mast. Then the College of Cardinals will gather subsequently in a conclave to choose a new pope.
His own funeral will attract tens of millions of pilgrims and dignitaries, probably one of the biggest international religious pilgrimages in recent history. Security will be tight, but the Vatican has promised that those faithful who wish to say their goodbyes will be permitted in.
A Legacy of Love and Justice
Pope Francis’s legacy is one of radical simplicity, deep compassion, and moral courage. He was the first American pope, the first Jesuit pope, and an unyielding voice of climate justice, interfaith dialogue, and economic justice. His words called out to the Church and world to listen to the cry of the poor, the migrants, and the excluded more intently.
Though his passing created a vacuum, his spirit still lingers on in the millions who were inspired by his message. His Easter Monday demise will always stand out in history as an experience of deep spiritual affinity. Whether by chance or divine symbolism, the circumstance of his death occurring at this juncture only serves to enhance the emotional and theological impact of the last act of his life.
Lastly, Pope Francis not only leaves behind a sorrowful Church, but he leaves behind a world that has been touched by his unshakeable belief in the power of love, mercy, and hope to change everything.
