Pope Francis dies

The news of his death was announced with deep emotion by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, through an official Vatican statement.

“Dear brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I announce to you the death of our Holy Father Francis,” the Cardinal stated.

The Cardinal emphasized that the entire life of the Pope was devoted to the service of God and the Church, and praised his teachings, which centered on the values of the Gospel: faith, courage, and universal love, especially toward the poor and marginalized.

“With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we entrust Pope Francis’s soul to the infinite mercy and love of the Triune God,” he concluded.

Serious Health Problems

The final years of Pope Francis’s life were marked by serious health issues and repeated hospitalizations.

On February 14, the Pontiff was admitted to the hospital for bronchitis treatment. A few days later, doctors announced he was suffering from pneumonia and required blood transfusions, as tests showed low platelet levels—a condition associated with anemia.

On February 22, the Vatican announced that his condition was critical due to prolonged respiratory distress, which required high-flow oxygen therapy. The following day, doctors also identified mild kidney failure.

The Pope remained hospitalized until the end of February, with doctors describing his condition as “complicated.” On March 6, his voice was heard for the first time since his admission, in an audio message where he thanked those praying for him and added, “I am with you from here.”

On Easter Sunday, he made a public appearance and greeted the faithful, just one day after meeting with U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance.