Vatican Confirms the Passing of the 266th Pontiff

Pope Francis, revered for his humility and devotion to social justice, has died at the age of 88, the Vatican confirmed Monday morning. Cardinal Kevin Farrell announced the news, 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.”

Health Struggles in His Final Months

The pope’s death followed a prolonged battle with respiratory illness. He was hospitalized in February 2025 for a respiratory tract infection that later progressed to bilateral pneumonia. The Vatican reported multiple health setbacks including a “prolonged” asthmatic respiratory crisis, low blood platelet counts requiring transfusions, and episodes of acute respiratory failure. Despite these challenges, Pope Francis was alert and remained communicative, expressing his gratitude via social media: “I feel all your affection and closeness and, at this particular time, I feel as if I am ‘carried’ and supported by all God’s people.”

By late March 2025, the pope had returned to the Vatican and made a brief public appearance from a wheelchair on Easter Sunday. His health, however, continued to decline.

A Pontificate of Simplicity and Inclusivity

Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on December 17, 1936, Pope Francis became the first pontiff from Latin America and the first Jesuit pope. Taking his name from St. Francis of Assisi, he emphasized service to the poor, humility, and ecological responsibility throughout his papacy.

Francis captured hearts with his down-to-earth manner—opting for a simple white cassock, riding in modest vehicles, and choosing to live in the Vatican guesthouse instead of the ornate papal apartments. He frequently posed for selfies, embraced children, and personally paid his hotel bill after being elected in 2013.

Outreach and Reform Efforts

Pope Francis prioritized outreach to marginalized communities, including immigrants, the poor, and those often excluded by Church doctrine. His first trip as pope took him to Lampedusa, an island where migrants often arrive after dangerous Mediterranean crossings. He used the occasion to draw attention to the plight of refugees and call for solidarity.

Throughout his tenure, Francis was unafraid to confront difficult issues within the Church. He met with and apologized to survivors of sexual abuse, declaring, “God weeps” for the Church’s failures. He also pushed the Church toward greater inclusivity, famously asking, “Who am I to judge?” when questioned about gay priests.

In 2023, he approved a Vatican declaration on blessings that welcomed people who seek spiritual support without requiring moral perfection, reinforcing his stance that the Church should be open to all.

From Humble Beginnings to the Papacy

Before joining the Jesuit order in 1958, Bergoglio worked as a bouncer, janitor, and laboratory technician. He was ordained in 1969 and eventually became Archbishop of Buenos Aires. Even in his archbishop days, he was known for preparing his own meals and using public transportation.

In 2012, he openly criticized priests who refused to baptize children born out of wedlock, calling them “hypocrites” and defending the dignity of single mothers.

Chronic Health Issues and Determination to Serve

Pope Francis dealt with health challenges throughout his life, including the removal of part of his right lung at age 21. In later years, he suffered from diverticulitis, colon surgery, knee pain requiring a cane and wheelchair, and frequent respiratory infections.

Despite these issues, he remained active in his role, traveling internationally into his late 80s. In 2022, after a trip to Canada, he acknowledged he might have to reduce his commitments or consider retirement: “The door is open.”

In 2025, following another fall and worsening pneumonia, the pope remained under hospital care for several weeks before his passing.

What Happens Next

A nine-day mourning period will follow, with Pope Francis lying in state at St. Peter’s Basilica. Cardinals under the age of 80 will gather in Rome for a conclave to elect the next pope. The traditional white smoke will announce the election of a new pontiff, who will then greet the world from the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica.

Pope Francis leaves behind a legacy marked by compassion, courage, and connection. His leadership redefined the role of the modern pope and brought renewed hope to millions of faithful across the globe.

Keep up with news from the Vatican City following Pope Francis’ passing with us on Que Onda Magazine.