VATICAN CITY — Pope Francis, the Bishop of Rome and leader of the Catholic Church, has died at the age of 88, the Vatican announced early Monday. The pontiff passed away at 7:35 a.m., following years of declining health.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell delivered the announcement in an official Vatican statement, saying, “Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and His Church.”
“He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage, and universal love—especially in favour of the poorest and most marginalised,” the statement read.
Final Days Marked by Health Struggles
In recent months, Pope Francis faced serious health complications, including a prolonged respiratory crisis in February 2025 that required intensive care and oxygen therapy. He was later diagnosed with bilateral pneumonia, anaemia, and early-stage kidney failure, prompting a 38-day stay at Gemelli Hospital.
Despite his health struggles, he remained visible to the public, greeting worshippers on Easter Sunday and making a final balcony appearance on March 23, where he smiled and gave a thumbs-up to crowds gathered outside the hospital.
Following his discharge, he was prescribed a lengthy recovery period, with doctors confirming he would require supplemental oxygen and oral medication for a persistent lung infection.
Legacy of a Historic Papacy
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Francis made history in 2013 as the first pope from South America and the first Jesuit to assume the papacy. He quickly became known as the “People’s Pope” for his emphasis on humility, compassion, and service to the poor.
Notably, he washed the feet of refugees from various religious backgrounds in 2016, a symbolic act of unity and love. His papacy championed progressive dialogue on social issues such as climate change, inequality, and LGBTQ inclusion.
In a groundbreaking 2013 statement, Francis said of gay clergy:
“If a person is gay and seeks God and has good will, who am I to judge them?”
However, his papacy was not without controversy. In 2024, he signed the doctrinal text Dignitas Infinita, reaffirming the Church’s opposition to gender reassignment, surrogacy, abortion, and euthanasia. That same year, reports surfaced alleging he used a homophobic slur, sparking criticism.
A Life of Service and Sacrifice
Francis’s health had long been a concern. He had part of a lung removed in his youth and suffered chronic sciatica, which restricted his mobility in recent years. He underwent multiple surgeries, including a 2021 colon operation and a 2023 procedure for an abdominal hernia.
Despite his ailments, he remained committed to his duties, only missing a few major Catholic events. In 2022, he hinted at the possibility of resignation, echoing his predecessor Benedict XVI, who stepped down in 2013 and died in 2022.
With over 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide, Pope Francis’s passing marks the end of an era. He will be remembered for his humility, empathy, and efforts to modernize the Catholic Church while staying rooted in traditional faith.
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