Pope Francis has died at the age of 88, with reports from Italian outlets La Repubblica and La Stampa indicating the cause of death was a cerebral hemorrhage, possibly a stroke. This is reportedly unrelated to the respiratory problems and pneumonia that hospitalized him in February, the news outlets claim. �
The Vatican announced today, Easter Monday, that the Pope passed away peacefully, having dedicated his “entire life” to the service of God and the Church, according to Italian media reports quoting his doctors.
Just days before his passing, the late Pontiff reportedly claimed he was “living it as best” as he could. Despite a history of health issues and reduced mobility, attributed partly to his age and weight gain, Pope Francis maintained a demanding schedule until his final weeks. This included a significant 12-day tour across Southeast Asia and Oceania in September 2024. �
Following his discharge from the hospital last month, doctors had advised at least two months of rest at his residence. One of his attending physicians noted that the Pontiff had experienced “two very critical episodes” where his “life was in danger” during his hospital stay. �
However, Pope Francis appeared determined to remain active, making surprise appearances at the conclusion of Masses and visiting St Peter’s Basilica. These appearances had offered hope to the faithful that his health was improving. Notably, in the final week of his life, he was seen in public twice without the nasal cannula he had been using for oxygen.
Pope Francis, who had a history of chronic lung disease and had undergone the removal of part of one lung in his youth, was admitted to Gemelli hospital on February 14 due to a respiratory crisis that evolved into double pneumonia. His 38-day stay marked the longest hospitalization of his 12-year papacy. �
He made a poignant public appearance on Easter Sunday, just a day before his death, to bless thousands of people in St Peter’s Square. �
Sources and related content
