Vatican Shares First Photos of Late Pope Francis in Open Casket Following Death at 88
Story written by SpringNewsNG Media Limited – Vatican City – April 22, 2025 –
The Vatican has released the first official photographs of Pope Francis lying in repose following his death at the age of 88. The late pontiff is shown peacefully resting in an open wooden coffin, dressed in red papal vestments with a bishop’s miter and a rosary carefully placed in his hands.
The solemn images were taken within the private chapel at Casa Santa Marta, Pope Francis’ residence inside the Vatican where he passed away on Monday morning, April 21. The photographs also captured Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State, offering prayers beside the late Holy Father.
Cause of Death and Final Moments
According to an official medical report issued by Dr. Andrea Arcangeli, head of the Vatican’s Directorate of Health and Hygiene, Pope Francis succumbed to complications from a cerebral stroke. The stroke led to a coma and irreversible cardiac failure, ending a papacy marked by humility, reform, and global outreach.
The report also noted several pre-existing health conditions, including Type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and a history of respiratory illnesses, including bilateral pneumonia. These conditions had increasingly impacted his strength and mobility in recent years.
Final Public Appearance
Remarkably, Pope Francis made a brief public appearance just one day before his passing, waving to pilgrims from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica during Easter Sunday celebrations. While he appeared visibly frail, he managed to greet the faithful, although he was unable to deliver the full Urbi et Orbi message.
His death was officially confirmed at 7:35 a.m. local time on April 21, 2025, through a medical procedure known as electrocardiographic thanatography, which verifies death based on cardiac signals.
Historic Legacy
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis made history in 2013 when he became the first pope from Latin America. Known for his focus on the poor, environmental advocacy, and calls for reform within the Catholic Church, his legacy continues to resonate globally.
The Vatican has announced that funeral preparations are underway, with more details expected in the coming days regarding public viewing and final rites.
