Pope Francis, the 266th pope of the Roman Catholic Church, passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. His death followed a five-week stay in hospital a month earlier, where he suffered from a respiratory tract infection and double pneumonia. The cause of his death was officially registered as a stroke followed by irreversible cardiac arrest. His Requiem Mass was celebrated on April 26, five days after his death, at St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City. The ceremony was attended by dozens of world leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump and Prince William, who represented his father, King Charles III, due to health issues. The funeral was broadcast globally and live-streamed on the Vatican’s website, Facebook, and YouTube, with English commentary. Prior to a private interment at St. Mary Major—a departure from the tradition of papal burials at St. Peter’s—the coffin was ceremonially received by a group of impoverished and marginalized individuals, reflecting Pope Francis’ lifelong commitment to social justice. The College of Cardinals is expected to convene between May 6 and 12 for the conclave to elect his successor.