Most Rev. Austin A. Vetter Bishop | Diocese of Helena

Pope Francis, the 265th leader of the Catholic Church, has died at the age of 88. He passed away on April 21, 2025, at the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta. The announcement brings sorrow as the church community remembers his contributions and leadership since his election in 2013.

"Pope Francis has shown time and again his dedication to the poor and vulnerable, the marginalized, and the migrant," his statement to mourners reads. The statement continues, "He has been for us a great model of proclaiming the mercy of God, of stewardship, listening, and discipleship of Jesus Christ."

With the church in a Jubilee Year of Hope, the communiqué reflects on Pope Francis's "ultimate pilgrimage of hope to the embrace of our loving God" and requests prayers for his soul. It appeals for his intercession, noting, "Today we entrust his soul to our Blessed Mother, asking her intercession to accompany him to the house of the Father."

The church prays, "Eternal rest grant unto Pope Francis, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen."