This morning, devastating news reached millions worldwide: Pope Francis has died. The Vatican announced his passing on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, a day usually filled with joy that has now turned into one of sorrow. The world took a moment to honor a man whose papacy was characterized by humility, compassion, and a steadfast dedication to social justice.

In the days before his death, Pope Francis made what would be his last public appearance. On Easter Sunday, despite his ongoing health issues, he addressed the faithful from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica. Although he appeared frail and was seated in a wheelchair, he found the strength to wish the crowd a heartfelt “Happy Easter” and offered his blessing to the tens of thousands who had come to Rome for the holiday.

Due to his declining health, Cardinal Angelo Comastri presided over the Easter Mass in place of the Pope, marking a significant departure from tradition and signaling to many that the Holy Father’s condition had deteriorated. Nevertheless, Francis’s voice resonated through a poignant Easter message delivered on his behalf by a Vatican archbishop. In this message, he not only celebrated the occasion but also made a final appeal for peace and compassion—words that now carry even greater significance.

His message addressed global suffering and conflict, specifically mentioning the people of Gaza and their Christian community, who continue to endure a devastating humanitarian crisis. He expressed concern over the rising tide of antisemitism worldwide and urged the global community to recommit to fundamental freedoms.

“There can be no peace without freedom of religion, freedom of thought, freedom of expression, and respect for the views of others,” the message stated—words that now serve as a testament to his lasting legacy of inclusivity and advocacy for human dignity.

Following the address, the Pope was driven through the square in an open-top vehicle, providing one last visible connection to his followers. Those present likely did not realize they were witnessing history, as this would be the final public appearance of Pope Francis.

At the time of his passing, he was 88 years old and had been facing a series of health challenges, including a severe case of double pneumonia. Just weeks prior, he had been released from Rome’s Gemelli Hospital after a month-long stay. Although doctors permitted him to return to his residence at Casa Santa Marta, they cautioned that his recovery would be slow and delicate.

Despite his illness, Pope Francis remained spiritually active, though physically limited. For the first time since his election in 2013, he was unable to participate in most Holy Week events. He missed the foot-washing ritual on Holy Thursday—a deeply symbolic act reflecting Jesus’s humility with his disciples—as well as the Stations of the Cross at the Colosseum on Good Friday and the Easter Vigil at Saint Peter’s Basilica on Saturday. Responsibilities typically held by the Pope were delegated to senior cardinals.

Still, embodying his role as a shepherd, he made a brief appearance on Saturday to greet visitors—an act of courage that now seems profoundly symbolic. It was a final gesture of connection to the people he served until the very end.

Pope Francis will be remembered as one of the most significant and cherished figures in the modern Church. Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina, he became the first pope from the Americas, the first Jesuit pope, and the first to adopt the name Francis, in honor of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of the poor and marginalized.

His papacy was defined by a strong focus on reform, outreach, and compassion. He dedicated himself to serving those on the margins of society—refugees, the poor, the sick, and the forgotten. He urged the Church to confront contemporary issues with humility, whether addressing the climate crisis, acknowledging historical injustices, or advocating for a more inclusive approach to LGBTQ+ Catholics.

Though he faced criticism and internal resistance, Pope Francis consistently prioritized mercy over judgment. He fostered interfaith dialogue, championed economic justice, and reminded the Church to be a “field hospital” for the wounded rather than a fortress for the righteous.

His final days reflected his life’s work: quiet resilience, faith in action, and a profound love for humanity. The legacy he leaves behind is one of not only religious leadership but also moral clarity in a fractured world.

As news of his death spreads, tributes are pouring in from world leaders, religious figures, and ordinary individuals whose lives were touched by his words and example. Candlelight vigils have begun outside the Vatican, and churches around the world have opened their doors for prayer and remembrance.

The world has lost a spiritual giant. Yet the light Pope Francis ignited—in his calls for unity, dignity, and justice—continues to shine.

May he rest in peace, and may his final message inspire those he leaves behind.