Cardinal Kevin Farrell announced the passing of Pope Francis with the words, “He has returned to the home of the Father,” marking the end of the life of the first Latin American pontiff. He went on to describe the late pope’s life as one “dedicated to the service of the Lord and His Church.”
“His teachings guided us to live the values of the Gospel with faith, courage, and universal love, especially for the poor and marginalized,” Cardinal Farrell continued. “With deep gratitude for his example as a true disciple of Jesus, we entrust his soul to the boundless, merciful love of God.”
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, passed away on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88, in his residence at the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta. His death, following recent health struggles, sent shockwaves through the Catholic world.
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 had been battling a respiratory infection and chronic bronchitis that ultimately led to pneumonia. He had been hospitalized in February at the Gemelli Hospital, where he spent 38 days, the longest of his 12-year papacy.
While his passing was deeply mourned, what also caught many off guard was the revelation of his net worth. Despite not receiving a salary since 2013, when he became the 266th pope, reports suggest Pope Francis had accumulated a wealth of nearly $16 million by the time of his death.
This surprising figure is especially remarkable given his vow to live a humble life. Unlike previous popes, Francis opted not to reside in the grand Papal Palace, instead choosing a modest two-room suite in the Domus Sanctae Marthae guesthouse. He also preferred eating in the communal dining room, further demonstrating his commitment to simplicity.
According to the Economic Times, Pope Francis’ wealth primarily came from royalties, donations, and a discretionary fund of $385,000 annually as the head of the Roman Catholic Church.
Pope Francis’ last public appearance was on Easter Sunday, just a day before his passing, when he blessed the faithful in St. Peter’s Square. Prior to that, he had met with US Vice President JD Vance, who paid tribute to the late pope after his death.
“I just learned of Pope Francis’ passing,” Vice President Vance shared on social media. “My heart goes out to the millions of Christians around the world who loved him. I was fortunate to see him yesterday, though he was clearly very ill. I’ll always remember the beautiful homily he gave early in the COVID pandemic.”
