Vatican City, LOGIC.co.id – Sad news comes from the Vatican. Pope Francis, the first leader of the Roman Catholic Church from Latin America, passed away on Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. The news was officially confirmed by the Vatican early Monday morning local time.
“Dear brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I announce the passing of our Holy Father, Francis,” said Cardinal Kevin Farrell through Vatican television.
“At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father.”
Appeared on Easter Sunday Before His Death
Despite being hospitalized for 38 days due to bilateral pneumonia, Pope Francis surprised the world by appearing in public on Easter Sunday (April 20, 2025). He greeted the faithful in an open vehicle at St. Peter’s Square in the Vatican.
During the Easter Mass, the Pope’s message was read aloud by an aide. He once again called for a ceasefire in Gaza and urged for global peace. Shortly after, he also received U.S. Vice President JD Vance for a brief meeting.
Just a day later, the world was shocked by the news of his passing.
Global Mourning
The death of Pope Francis sparked an outpouring of grief from world leaders. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni described him as “a great man, a great shepherd.”
President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen said, “He inspired millions far beyond the Catholic Church through his humility and genuine love for the oppressed.”
President of Timor-Leste, Jose Ramos-Horta, also recalled the Pope’s visit to his country in September 2024, calling him a man who left behind a great legacy in humanity, justice, and brotherhood.
12 Years of Dynamic Leadership
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, was elected Pope on March 13, 2013. Known for his humility, he refused to live in the luxurious papal apartments and instead chose to reside in the Casa Santa Marta community for his psychological well-being.
His 12-year papacy was marked by major reforms within the Catholic Church, including efforts to address sexual abuse scandals, promote transparency in the Vatican’s bureaucracy, and advocate for inclusion of marginalized communities.
His reformist approach sparked both support and criticism—conservatives accused him of undermining tradition, while some progressives felt his changes did not go far enough.
Despite internal divisions within the Church, Pope Francis became a global symbol for peace, social justice, and interfaith dialogue.
Legacy and the Church’s Future
During his tenure, Pope Francis appointed around 80 percent of the cardinal electors who will choose the next Pope—most of whom are expected to continue his progressive vision.
His predecessor, Pope Benedict XVI, known as a symbol of conservatism, passed away in December 2022. The world now awaits to see who will carry on the leadership of the world’s largest Christian denomination.