Pope Francis Dies at 88 After Long Battle With Illness; World Mourns Transformative PontiffVATICAN CITY — Pope Francis, who endured a chronic lung condition stemming from a partial lung removal in his youth, passed away on Monday at the age of 88 following a prolonged and complex health struggle. His death concludes a historic papacy that redefined the role of the Church in modern times.
“At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of his Church,” announced Cardinal Kevin Ferrell, the Vatican camerlengo, in a solemn statement.
Pope Francis had been admitted to the hospital on February 14 after battling bronchitis for several weeks. His condition rapidly worsened due to a severe infection that evolved into double pneumonia. Doctors described his illness as extremely complicated, compounded by his fragile health, reduced lung capacity from earlier surgery, and ongoing mobility limitations.
While his condition showed signs of stabilization by the start of the fourth week in hospital care, and physicians allowed him to return to the Vatican to continue recovery, the pope faced two serious medical emergencies during his stay. Though he rallied briefly, his resilience was ultimately overtaken by the toll of the illness.
Pope Francis’s death brings to a close a papacy deeply rooted in compassion, humility, and outreach to the marginalized. From his earliest days in the role, he prioritized mercy over judgment and inclusivity over exclusion, shaping a more accessible and empathetic image of the Catholic Church. His leadership not only touched millions of Catholics around the world but also earned admiration across religious and cultural lines.
His legacy will endure through his bold vision, his unwavering service, and his message of love for the least among us—a beacon that will continue to inspire generations to come.
