Pope Francis dies at 88 after long health battle
Pope Francis has died after ongoing health issues, including lung problems and a recent hospital stay for pneumonia.
The Vatican has confirmed that Pope Francis (full name Jorge Mario Bergoglio) has died at the age of 88.
In a post on the Vatican News X account, it was said he passed away at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta.
Pope Francis died on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88 at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta. pic.twitter.com/jUIkbplVi2
— Vatican News (@VaticanNews) April 21, 2025
A separate post noted that the pope died at 07:35 on Easter Monday.
“Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. At 07:35 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 of His Church. He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage, and universal love, especially in favor of the poorest and most marginalised. 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.”
At 9:45 AM on Easter Monday, Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, spoke these words at the Casa Santa Marta:
“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,…
— Vatican News (@VaticanNews) April 21, 2025
Bergoglio was born in Buenos Aires on December 17, 1936.
According to an article by Vatican News, Pope Francis was hospitalised on February 14 after experiencing bronchitis symptoms for several days.
His health condition over the years:
- His condition worsened, leading to a diagnosis of bilateral pneumonia on February 18.
- He spent 38 days in the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic before returning to Casa Santa Marta to continue recovery.
- The Pope had part of his lung removed in his 20s due to a serious infection while living in Argentina.
- In later years, he frequently battled respiratory problems and had to cancel international trips, including a 2023 visit to the UAE.
- In April 2024, he approved an updated edition of the papal funeral liturgy, which will be used for his own funeral.
Breaking news at your fingertips… Follow Caxton Network News on Facebook and join our WhatsApp channel.
Nuus wat saakmaak. Volg Caxton Netwerk-nuus op Facebook en sluit aan by ons WhatsApp-kanaal.
Read original story on www.citizen.co.za
