Vatican City: Pope Francis passed away at the age of 88 on Easter Monday, 21 April 2025, at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta, according to an official statement from the Holy See. The announcement was made at 9:45 AM by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber.

"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," he said, praising the late Pope’s lifelong dedication to the Church and his compassion for the poor and marginalised.

Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis was ordained a priest in 1969. Following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI, he was elected as the 266th Pope on 13 March 2013, becoming the first Pope from the Americas and the first Jesuit to ascend to the papacy. He chose the name Francis in honour of Saint Francis of Assisi, reflecting his commitment to humility, peace, and care for the environment.

Novendiale and Papal Conclave

In line with tradition, the Vatican has now entered a nine-day mourning period known as the Novendiale, a practice dating back to ancient Roman times. During this period, preparations will be made for the Conclave, where eligible Cardinals will elect the next Vicar of Christ.

Out of the 252 living Cardinals, 135 are under the age of 80 and eligible to vote. Among them, four are from India:

  • Cardinal George Jacob Koovakad (51), Prefect of the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue and Cardinal-Deacon of S. Antonio di Padova a Circonvallazione Appia.

  • Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrao (72), Metropolitan Archbishop of Goa and Daman, President of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of India, and President of the Federation of Asian Bishops' Conferences.

  • Cardinal Anthony Poola (63), Metropolitan Archbishop of Hyderabad.

  • Cardinal Baselios Cleemis Thottunkal, Major Archbishop of the Syro-Malankara Church in Trivandrum.

Once the Conclave begins, Cardinals will cast their votes in secrecy within the Sistine Chapel. The result of each vote is signalled to the world via the colour of smoke rising from the chapel’s chimney: black smoke indicates no decision, while white smoke heralds the election of a new Pope.

Global Mourning and tributes

World leaders and religious communities around the globe have paid tribute to Pope Francis. French President Emmanuel Macron wrote on X (formerly Twitter):
"From Buenos Aires to Rome, Pope Francis wanted the Church to bring joy and hope to the poorest. May it unite people with each other and with nature. May this hope continually revive beyond him."

European Parliament President Roberta Metsola also posted a heartfelt message:
"Europe mourns the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. His contagious smile captured millions of hearts across the globe. 'The People's Pope' will be remembered for his love for life, hope for peace, compassion for equality & social justice. May he rest in peace."