The Catholic Church mourns the passing of Pope Francis, who died at the age of 88 after leading the Church for 12 years. Elected in 2013 following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI, Francis brought a renewed spirit to the Vatican through his emphasis on humility, social justice, and care for the marginalized.
In his final weeks, the Pope battled a serious bout of double pneumonia. He had been hospitalized in mid-February at Rome's Gemelli Hospital, where he remained under observation and treatment for 37 days before being discharged. Having lost a significant portion of his lung due to illness earlier in life, respiratory infections had always posed a severe threat to his health. He had previously spent three days in the hospital in 2023 due to a similar condition.
The Vatican announced the Pope’s death through a message on social media platform X, stating that he passed away peacefully in his residence early in the morning. Cardinal Kevin Farrell, delivering the official statement, said, "With deep sorrow, I must inform you of the passing of our Holy Father Francis. He returned to the Father's house at 07:35 this morning. He devoted his entire life to the Lord and His Church, living the Gospel with courage and love, especially in defense of the poor and the excluded."
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Francis was the first Pope from Latin America and the first Jesuit to be elected to the role. His papacy broke numerous traditions, focusing on environmental issues, interfaith dialogue, and a more inclusive Church. He had recently announced his intention to visit Turkey on May 26 to commemorate the 1700th anniversary of the First Council of Nicaea, a landmark event in Christian history.
With his passing, the world loses a voice of empathy and reform—but his message will continue to inspire generations to come.