Cintia A. , Lebledparle.com
The Catholic Church and the world are in mourning following the death of Pope Francis, who passed away this morning at the age of 88. The announcement was made by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, at 9:45 AM from the Casa Santa Marta, the Pope’s residence. “Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father,” he announced. With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite merciful love of the One and Triune God,” he added.
According to Vatican News, Pope Francis had been admitted to the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital on Friday, February 14, 2025, after several days of battling bronchitis. His condition gradually deteriorated and, on Tuesday, February 18, doctors diagnosed him with bilateral pneumonia. He remained hospitalized for 38 days before returning to Casa Santa Marta to continue his recovery. Despite his health challenges, the Pope was present at the Easter Mass, where he delivered a message urging the faithful to celebrate Easter in peace and love. His presence at the mass gave hope to many, that he is fully recovering not knowing it will be his last.
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, was elected as the 266th Pope of the Roman Catholic Church in March 2013. He was the first pope from the Americas and the first Jesuit pope. Tributes have begun pouring in from world leaders, religious figures, and faithful Catholics across the globe, honoring his enduring legacy and compassionate leadership.
Funeral arrangements and the process for the election of the next pope are expected to be announced soon.
