The Vice President of the United States, JD Vance, expressed his sorrow on Monday over the passing of Pope Francis, whom he had visited in person just a few hours earlier. The pontiff died at the age of 88 at the Casa Santa Marta residence, following a prolonged decline in health.
“I just learned about the passing of Pope Francis. My heart is with the millions of Christians worldwide who loved him,” were JD Vance's farewell words on the social network X.
The American politician, who is on an official visit to New Delhi, shared his impressions after seeing the Pope, who appeared visibly fragile but still aware, this Easter Sunday. They exchanged brief greetings at the papal residence.
"I was glad to see him yesterday, although he was obviously very sick. I will always remember him for the homily he gave in the early days of COVID. It was truly beautiful. May God grant him rest," Vance added.
Final Days of Francisco
The health of Pope Francis had significantly worsened since February, when he was hospitalized due to bronchitis that developed into bilateral pneumonia.
He spent 38 days hospitalized at the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic and was discharged on March 23. Since then, he had been residing at the Casa Santa Marta, where he passed away this Monday, April 21 at 7:35 a.m. (Rome time), as reported by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber.
The pontiff did not take part in the Easter celebrations, although he made a brief public appearance on Sunday from the central balcony of St. Peter's Basilica to give the Urbi et Orbi blessing. Seen in the popemobile, he appeared fragile and had difficulty moving.
The legacy of a singular pope
Born as Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis was the first Jesuit and the first Latin American pontiff.
During his papacy, he promoted a more inclusive Church, with a strong commitment to social justice, the environment, and the fight against abuses within the institution.
Throughout his life, he suffered from respiratory issues, including a lung procedure in his youth, which affected his health until the end.
Staying true to his sober style, Francisco had requested a simple funeral in 2024, focused on faith and free from pomp and symbols of power. The details of the burial have not yet been announced, but it is expected to take place in the coming days at the Vatican, with delegations from around the world in attendance.
With his death, the period of sede vacante begins, during which the College of Cardinals will gather in conclave to elect the new leader of the Catholic Church.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Death of Pope Francis and His Legacy
When and where did Pope Francis die?
Pope Francis died on April 21, 2025, at the Casa Santa Marta residence in the Vatican. He passed away at the age of 88 after a long period of declining health, primarily due to respiratory complications that included bilateral pneumonia.
What was Pope Francis' legacy in the Catholic Church?
Pope Francis, born as Jorge Mario Bergoglio, was the first Jesuit and Latin American pontiff. He promoted a more inclusive Church committed to social justice, the environment, and fighting against abuses within the Church. His papacy was marked by a strong commitment to interreligious dialogue and world peace, leaving a reformist legacy within the Catholic Church.
What was the last stage of Pope Francis's life like?
In the last months of his life, Pope Francis faced serious health issues, including bilateral pneumonia and respiratory complications. He spent 38 days hospitalized at the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic before returning to the Vatican to continue his recovery. Despite the challenges, he continued to carry out some work activities and stayed in touch with his followers through messages of faith and hope.
What is known about Pope Francis' funeral?
Although specific details of Pope Francis' funeral have not yet been announced, it is known that he requested a simple funeral, focused on faith and devoid of symbols of power. This decision reflects his sober and humble style. The funeral is expected to take place in the Vatican with the participation of delegations from around the world.
What will happen after the death of Pope Francis?
With the passing of Pope Francis, the period of sede vacante begins, during which the College of Cardinals will gather in a conclave to elect the new leader of the Catholic Church. This process is a significant moment for the Church, as it will determine the future direction of the institution.
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