Popular Question: Pope Francis Dies on Easter Monday Aged 88, with A Final Goodbye to a Beloved Spiritual Leader.
The world is mourning the loss of Pope Francis, the beloved head of the Roman Catholic Church, who died on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. The news was confirmed by the Vatican and has triggered an outpouring of tributes from across the globe. Pope Francis had just delivered his Easter message a day before, appearing frail yet determined as he blessed thousands gathered at St. Peter’s Square. His death marks the end of a historic and transformative papacy that spanned more than a decade.
Did the Pope Die on Easter?
One of the most searched questions in the wake of this breaking news has been, “Did the Pope die on Easter?” The answer is no Pope Francis passed away on Easter Monday, the day following the major Christian celebration of Christ’s resurrection. His final public appearance was on Easter Sunday, when he addressed the faithful with a heartfelt message of peace and hope.
According to Vatican News, the Pope died at Casa Santa Marta, his residence within Vatican City, after suffering a stroke followed by heart failure. The Vatican spokesperson reported that he died peacefully at 9:24 AM local time.
Pope Francis Dies After Delivering Easter Message
Just hours before his death, Pope Francis delivered what would become his final public message during Easter Sunday Mass. The 88-year-old pontiff appeared visibly fatigued but stood firm in spirit, calling for peace in conflict zones and unity among nations. A video titled “Pope Francis Passes Away Day After Big Easter Message” by TIMES NOW captures the emotional contrast between his vibrant presence on Easter Sunday and the tragic news that followed the next day.
In another emotional clip shared by WFAA, the caption reads, “Pope Francis dies after attending Easter Sunday services.” The footage shows Pope Francis being assisted off the stage after the Mass, waving gently to the crowd. The somber expressions of those around him hinted at concern, though no one expected what would unfold within the next 24 hours.
Tributes Pour In from Around the World
The announcement of the Pope’s passing quickly spread across social media platforms and news networks. Videos like BBC News’ “Worldwide tributes to Pope Francis who died on Easter Monday” show candlelit vigils in cities from Manila to Buenos Aires, a poignant reminder of the Pope’s global influence.
In Kenya, local news outlet Tuko.co.ke posted, “Kenyans heartbroken as Pope Francis dies,” reflecting the deep admiration many held for the Pope, particularly for his advocacy for the poor and marginalized. Faithful across Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas observed moments of silence and held masses in his honor.
Pope Francis and His Final Days
Speculations and curiosity have surged around the specifics of the Pope’s final days. Search terms like “what time did Pope Francis die,” “pope lying in state,” and “Pope Francis open casket” reflect the global attention to every detail of his final hours. According to The Guardian, the Pope’s health had been deteriorating, with reports indicating he suffered a stroke on Sunday night, followed by cardiac complications early Monday morning.
The Vatican confirmed that he passed away in his private room with his longtime personal secretary, Archbishop Georg Gänswein, by his side. His last words, yet to be officially confirmed, are believed to have been a whisper of prayer: “Domine, miserere mei”—Latin for “Lord, have mercy on me.”
Funeral Plans and Burial Date
The funeral of Pope Francis is scheduled for Saturday, April 26, 2025, as reported in a BBC News video titled “Burial on Saturday.” The ceremony will be held at St. Peter’s Basilica and will be attended by world leaders, religious figures, and thousands of mourners. He will lie in state for public viewing from Wednesday to Friday, with millions expected to travel to the Vatican to pay their respects.
Regarding burial, Vatican officials have confirmed that Pope Francis will be interred in the crypt beneath St. Peter’s Basilica, joining the likes of Pope John Paul II and Pope Benedict XVI. Honoring his wishes, his burial will be simple—“without particular decoration,” as reported by The Guardian.
What Happens Next: The Search for a New Pope
With the pontiff’s passing, attention now turns to the future leadership of the Catholic Church. Questions like “When will the next pope be elected?” and “Who’s the new pope?” have surged online. According to the College of Cardinals, preparations are underway for the Papal Conclave, the sacred process of selecting a new pope.
The conclave is expected to begin within two weeks of Pope Francis’ funeral. Until a new leader is elected, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican Secretary of State, will temporarily handle administrative duties.
Pope Francis’ Legacy
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, was the first Latin American pope and the first Jesuit to hold the office. His papacy, which began in March 2013, will be remembered for its humility, focus on the poor, emphasis on climate justice, and efforts to reform the Vatican bureaucracy.
Under his leadership, the Catholic Church addressed complex issues such as LGBTQ+ inclusion, clerical abuse, and interfaith dialogue. He consistently called for compassion, simplicity, and mercy a tone that resonated with millions.
Conclusion
The death of Pope Francis on Easter Monday marks the end of a spiritual era. He was more than a religious figure he was a symbol of unity, humility, and reform. As the world mourns, the Catholic Church now begins a historic transition, seeking a new shepherd for its global flock.
Whether you found out from a YouTube video, a social media post, or an article from Vatican News or BBC, one truth remains: Pope Francis’ legacy will live on in the hearts of millions. As the Church prepares for his funeral and the election of a new pope, his final Easter message echoes on. Urging peace, empathy, and hope for all humanity.