The Passing of Pope Francis: A Shepherd’s Final Easter

Pope Francis

By Edward Francis Dalliah

Shortly after Catholics around the world commemorated the resurrection of Christ on 20th April 2025, the Vatican announced the passing of Pope Francis on the following day, which was Easter Monday. According to their official statement, the Pope received the call of the Lord at 7:35 a.m.

Pope Francis had been hospitalised at Rome's Gemelli Hospital on 14th February 2025 due to a severe respiratory infection that progressed to bilateral pneumonia. During his five-week stay, he endured two critical health episodes that placed his life in danger. However, showing some improvement, he was discharged on 23rd March and returned to the Vatican to continue his recovery. Sadly, just hours after celebrating Easter Sunday, he passed away at the age of 88.

The Vatican publication revealed that, at 9:45 a.m., Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, officially announced the Pope’s death from the Casa Santa Marta, stating:

“Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow, I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of His Church. He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage, and universal love, especially in favour of the poorest and most marginalised. With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite merciful love of the One and Triune God.”

This news will be a particular shock to the Vice President of the United States, James David Vance, who met with the Pope less than 24 hours before his passing. In a news publication by the Vatican on 20th April at 1:00 p.m., it was confirmed that:

“On Easter Sunday morning, shortly after 11:30 a.m. at the Casa Santa Marta, Pope Francis had a brief private meeting with the Vice President of the United States of America, JD (James David) Vance. The Holy See Press Office gave news of the meeting and noted it lasted a few minutes and offered an opportunity to exchange Easter greetings.”

Shortly after the Vatican announcement, VP JD Vance wrote on X, formerly Twitter, “I just learned of the passing of Pope Francis. 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. But I’ll always remember him for the homily he gave in the very early days of COVID. It was really quite beautiful. May God rest his soul.”

Currently, the seat of the Pope is vacant. The Apostolic See, also known as the Sede Vacante, now enters a period of transition, during which preparations for the papal funeral and the upcoming conclave will take place. The date and details of Pope Francis’s burial are expected to be announced in the coming days.

Though the passing of the Holy Father has sent waves of sorrow across the Catholic world, millions now mourn a spiritual leader who embodied humility, compassion, and a tireless commitment to the Gospel. His inspired homily and advocacy for peace, especially in conflict countries, will be remembered.