BREAKING: Pope Francis Is Dead

Pope Francis, the leader of the Catholic Church, has passed away at the age of 88.

A statement from the Vatican said Pope Francis died on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at his residence in Casa Santa Marta, located within Vatican City.

Just a day before his death, on Easter Sunday, he appeared before crowds at St. Peter’s Basilica, greeting the faithful after leading the Easter Mass.

“Dearest brothers and sisters, it is with deep sorrow that I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis.

“This morning at 7:35 am (0535 GMT) the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father.

“His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and His church,” said Cardinal Kevin Farrell in the statement published by the Vatican on its Telegram channel.

Pope Francis died just a day after lifting the spirits of worshippers at the Vatican on Easter Sunday.

Despite still recovering from a serious illness, he appeared on the balcony of Saint Peter’s Basilica to greet the crowd.

Earlier this year, he had two close calls with death while battling pneumonia. He was hospitalized for 38 days before being discharged on March 23.

On Easter Sunday, he smiled and waved to those gathered in Saint Peter’s Square, wishing them a “Happy Easter.”

During his traditional “Urbi et Orbi” blessing — meaning “To the City and the World” — he spoke about the importance of free thought and tolerance.

KanyiDaily recalls that Pope Francis had recently been dealing with bilateral pneumonia and was discharged from the hospital on March 23 after receiving treatment