The Vatican announced the death of Pope Francis on Easter Monday 2025, at the age of 88. Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, delivered the news from Casa Santa Marta, stating that the Pope died at 7:35 am local time.
In his statement, Cardinal Farrell said: 'With deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and His Church. He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage and universal love, especially in favour of the poorest and most marginalised.'
As Camerlengo, Cardinal Farrell now oversees the transition period, including the destruction of the papal seal and preparations for the conclave to elect a successor. The Pope's funeral will be scaled back in accordance with his wishes, with his body placed in a simple coffin rather than the traditional three coffins.
Monsignor Diego Ravelli, master of liturgical ceremonies, explained that the simpler rites were intended to emphasise that the funeral is 'that of a shepherd and disciple of Christ and not of a powerful man of this world.' The 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide now await the election of a new pope.
