By Valerie Milano
Phoenix, AZ (The Hollywood Times) 4/21/25 – Pope Francis, the 266th and first Latin American pope of the Roman Catholic Church, passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88, in Vatican City. His death occurred at 7:35 AM CEST at his residence in the Domus Sanctae Marthae, following a prolonged illness that included recent treatment for double pneumonia.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, he was elected pope on March 13, 2013. Known for his humility, advocacy for the poor, environmental stewardship, and outreach to marginalized groups, his death elicited global mourning and tributes from religious leaders, politicians, and citizens across continents.
Pope Francis’s papacy was marked by efforts to modernize the Church, interfaith dialogue, and bold political stances, including criticism of capitalism and climate negligence. He previously served 12 years as pope and made his last public appearance on Easter Sunday. World leaders, including U.S. Presidents Biden and Obama, King Charles III, and faith leaders such as the Dalai Lama and the Ecumenical Patriarch, paid homage.
The Vatican has begun preparations for his funeral, with public viewings scheduled in St. Peter’s Basilica. His legacy as a spiritual leader who championed global equity, human dignity, and environmental care will endure.
