Death of Pope Francis

Pope Francis died on Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88 at his residence in the Vatican's Casa Santa Marta.

At 9:45 AM (Rome time), Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, announced the death of Pope Francis from the Casa Santa Marta with these words:

"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 favor of the poorest and most marginalized. 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."

Fr Raymond Breslin V.G. will celebrate a Requiem Mass for Pope Francis in Motherwell Cathedral tonight at 7.00 pm.

The Diocesan Offices will be open from 6.15pm for those vesting for the Mass.

We thank God for the gift of Francis as Pontiff and Leader of the Catholic Church and for the example of faith, charity and humility he brought, not just to Catholics and Christians, but to people throughout the world.

May his soul rest in the peace of the Lord.