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April 21, 2025 – Vatican City
Pope Francis, the 266th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church, passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. His death occurred at 7:35 AM CEST at the Domus Sanctae Marthae in Vatican City, following a prolonged illness that included a recent hospitalization for double pneumonia. The Vatican confirmed that he died of a stroke, which led to coma and irreversible heart failure . 
A Trailblazing Pontificate
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in 1936, Pope Francis made history on March 13, 2013, when he was elected as the first Jesuit pope, the first from the Americas, and the first non-European pope since the 8th century . His papacy was characterized by a commitment to social justice, humility, and a focus on the marginalized. He was known for his progressive stances on various issues, including climate change, LGBTQ+ inclusion, and the abolition of the death penalty. 
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Final Days and Health Challenges
In early 2025, Pope Francis faced significant health challenges. He was hospitalized for double pneumonia and mild kidney insufficiency, requiring high-flow oxygen therapy . Despite these health issues, he remained active in his duties, participating in Holy Mass and continuing his spiritual exercises via videoconference . His final public appearance was on Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025, when he delivered his blessing from a wheelchair .  
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Pope Francis made his last public appearance on Easter Sunday, a day before his death.
A video link to Pope Francis last public appearance
Too weak to give his full traditional Easter message, the 88 year old briefly appeared on St Peter’s Basilica balcony to greet the crowd.
A Legacy of Compassion and Reform
Pope Francis’s legacy is marked by his efforts to modernize and humanize the Church. He condemned abuse cover-ups, supported migrants, addressed the climate crisis, and advocated for civil unions for same-sex couples. His leadership was not without controversy, including criticism of his handling of clerical sex abuse and past usage of potentially offensive language. Nevertheless, his deep compassion and drive for reform left a significant impact on the Catholic Church and its 1.3 billion followers worldwide .
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Global Tributes
World leaders have expressed their condolences and paid tribute to Pope Francis. Nigerian President Bola Tinubu called on the world to honor his teachings and celebrate his legacy, describing him as a champion of the underprivileged and a beacon of hope for millions. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa praised his humility and commitment to making the Church and the world a better place. Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan described him as a leader and educator who devoted his life to advancing world peace, human progress, and well-being.
A brief flash back, Schwarzenegger, ”the terminator” was warmly greeted by Pope Francis in the Vatican City in 2017. Arnold gifted the Pope with a book on the great state of California, which he was the Governor of between 2003 and 2011.
The book was titled California: The Golden Land of Promise. In return, Pope Francis gifted Schwarzenegger and his companions a commemorative medal for the Jubilee Year . 
The meeting underscored their mutual dedication to promoting clean energy and combating climate change.
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Funeral Arrangements
In accordance with his wishes, Pope Francis will be buried in the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome, making him the first pope to be interred outside the Vatican since Pope Leo XIII in 1903. The funeral is scheduled to take place four to six days following his death . 
Conclusion
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Pope Francis’s passing marks the end of an era for the Catholic Church. His commitment to reform, compassion, and inclusivity has left an indelible mark on the Church and the world. As we remember his life and legacy, we are reminded of his call to serve others and to live out the values of the Gospel in our daily lives.
May he rest in peace 🕊️