Pope Francis, renowned for his humility and global outreach that resonated across religious lines, has passed away at the age of 88, the Vatican confirmed.
“At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father,” said Cardinal Kevin Ferrell. “His life was wholly devoted to serving the Lord and the Church.”
Francis had been admitted to the hospital in mid-February 2025 with what was initially described as a respiratory infection. Four days into his stay, it was confirmed he was battling bilateral pneumonia. His condition remained unstable in the following weeks, including a severe asthmatic episode and multiple incidents of respiratory failure. Doctors provided oxygen support and blood transfusions to stabilize his health.
Although he was released from the hospital on March 23 and made limited public appearances, including a brief Easter greeting from St. Peter’s Basilica, his health remained fragile. He frequently relied on a wheelchair and supplemental oxygen.
Despite his ailments, Pope Francis maintained public engagement. In early March, he thanked well-wishers via social media, expressing how deeply moved he was by the outpouring of global prayers and support.
Francis had long struggled with health issues. At 21, he had part of a lung removed due to an infection. In later years, he suffered from gastrointestinal and mobility problems, including a 2021 colon surgery and knee ailments that limited his movement.
Jorge Mario Bergoglio, born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, became the first Latin American and Jesuit pope in 2013. Taking the name “Francis” after St. Francis of Assisi, he embodied the saint’s commitment to the poor and marginalized.
Throughout his papacy, Francis rejected Vatican opulence—living in a guest house instead of the apostolic palace and driving modest vehicles. He was widely regarded as more accessible than previous popes, often mingling with crowds, posing for selfies, and welcoming children to join him during public events.
He drew international attention for his compassionate stance on social issues. From calling out hypocrisy in the Church to advocating for immigrant rights and offering blessings to LGBTQ+ individuals, his papacy marked a shift toward a more inclusive and reformist tone, even while maintaining traditional Church doctrines.
As archbishop of Buenos Aires, Francis was already known for his austere lifestyle and dedication to social justice. His opposition to clerical elitism and his hands-on approach to pastoral care followed him to the Vatican.
A period of nine days of mourning will now follow. Pope Francis’ body will lie in state at St. Peter’s Basilica for public viewing, and preparations are underway for his funeral. Cardinals under the age of 80 will be called to Rome for a conclave to elect the next pope—a process expected to begin within two to three weeks.
The next pontiff will be revealed to the world from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, heralded by the white smoke rising from the Sistine Chapel chimney.