Cardinal Kevin Farrell announced the passing of Pope Francis with the words, “He returned to the home of the Father,” marking the end of a historic papacy led by the first Latin American pontiff.
“His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of his Church,” Cardinal Farrell said. “He taught us to embody the values of the Gospel — faithfulness, courage, and a universal love, especially for the poor and marginalized.”
“With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we entrust Pope Francis’ soul to the infinite and merciful love of God,” he added.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina, Pope Francis passed away early Monday morning at the age of 88. His death has prompted deep mourning and reflection across the global Catholic community.
Pope Francis died on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88 at his residence in the Vatican's Casa Santa Marta. pic.twitter.com/jUIkbplVi2
— Vatican News (@VaticanNews) April 21, 2025
The Pope’s health had been in decline in recent months. He was treated for a respiratory infection and chronic bronchitis, which progressed to pneumonia. In February, he spent 38 days at Gemelli Hospital — his longest hospital stay during his 12-year pontificate.
One detail that surprised many after his death was the revelation of his estimated net worth: approximately $16 million. This figure raised eyebrows, considering he had not drawn a salary since his appointment as the 266th pope in 2013.
True to his values, Pope Francis chose a modest lifestyle. Rather than reside in the grand Papal Palace, he lived in a simple two-room suite in the Domus Sanctae Marthae guesthouse and regularly took his meals in the communal dining room. From the start of his papacy, he vowed to live simply — a promise he upheld until his final days.
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| Franco Origlia/Getty Images |
According to The Economic Times, much of his wealth came from royalties, donations, and an annual discretionary fund of $385,000 associated with his role as head of the Roman Catholic Church.
Pope Francis made his final public appearance on Easter Sunday, blessing thousands in St. Peter’s Square. A day earlier, he met with U.S. Vice President JD Vance.
Following the news of his passing, Vance paid tribute online: “My heart goes out to the millions of Christians all over the world who loved him. I was happy to see him yesterday, though he was obviously very ill. I’ll always remember him for the beautiful homily he gave early in the COVID pandemic.”
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