Vatican City — Pope Francis, widely revered for his humility, progressive voice, and unwavering efforts to bridge divides among cultures and religions, has passed away at the age of 88, the Vatican confirmed on Monday.
The official announcement was made by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, stating, “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 His Church.”
The pope had been hospitalized for over five weeks beginning February 2025, initially due to a respiratory tract infection. Later updates from the Vatican confirmed a diagnosis of bilateral pneumonia. Despite treatment, his condition worsened in March, marked by prolonged respiratory distress and acute episodes of respiratory failure that required nightly non-invasive ventilation and oxygen support.
After his discharge on March 23, Pope Francis returned to the Vatican, where his physicians prescribed several months of rest and rehabilitation. Yet, true to his enduring spirit, he made brief public appearances—first in a wheelchair at St. Peter’s Square and later delivering a short Easter Sunday message from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica.
Throughout his illness, Pope Francis remained mentally alert and spiritually engaged. He shared regular updates via his X account (formerly Twitter), expressing gratitude to those who prayed for him. “I feel all your affection and closeness,” he posted in early March. “At this particular time, I feel as if I am carried and supported by all God’s people.”
The pope also shared a heartfelt audio message in Spanish four days later, thanking the faithful for their support. “May God bless you and the Virgin protect you,” he said in his signature gentle tone.
Francis had long battled health issues. He had part of his lung removed at age 21 due to infection, underwent colon surgery in 2021, and later experienced mobility difficulties that led to his use of a wheelchair and cane in recent years. Still, his physical fragility never hindered the moral strength with which he led.
A transformative figure in modern Catholicism and a global symbol of compassion, Pope Francis leaves behind a legacy of inclusivity, humility, and profound leadership that extended far beyond the walls of the Vatican.
