Pope Francis has died at the age of 88, the Vatican has announced. The Pope, Bishop of Rome and head of the Catholic Church, became pontiff in 2013 following the resignation of his predecessor, Benedict XVI.
His later papacy was marked by hospital visits and health concerns. On February 14th, the Pope was hospitalized for bronchitis treatment.
Subsequently, the Vatican reported a diagnosis of bilateral pneumonia and blood transfusions due to low platelet levels, associated with anemia.
On February 22nd, the Vatican stated the Pope’s condition was critical after a “prolonged respiratory crisis” requiring high-flow oxygen, and the next day, reported renal failure.
Thousands of faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square to pray for his recovery, and others went to the Rome hospital where he was treated.
His 38-day hospital stay ended on March 23rd with a public appearance on the Gemelli hospital balcony, where he smiled and waved to crowds. He returned to the Vatican, making a surprise stop at his favorite basilica, before beginning a period of rest and recovery.
“The People’s Pope”
Born in 1936, Francis was the first South American Pope. His papacy was notable for his advocacy for refugees, the poor, and those fleeing war and famine, earning him the moniker “The People’s Pope.”
In 2016, he washed the feet of refugees from various faiths at an asylum center outside Rome, in a gesture of humility and service.
He also expressed views on climate change, inequality, and the role of women in the Catholic Church. His acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community was unprecedented. “If a person is gay and seeks God and has good will, who am I to judge?” he said.
Pope’s Health in Recent Years
As a young man in Argentina, Francis had part of a lung removed. In his later years, he used a wheelchair or cane and limited public speaking due to bronchitis and influenza.
He was first hospitalized as Pope in 2021 for colon surgery. In June 2023, he underwent abdominal surgery. The Vatican cited “recurrent, painful, and worsening” symptoms from an abdominal hernia.
In 2022, he hinted at potential resignation due to declining health. His predecessor, Benedict XVI, was the first Pope to resign in over 600 years and died in 2022.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, he previously served as Archbishop of Buenos Aires. Approximately 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide will mourn Francis’s death.
