The official cause of demise for Pope Francis has been unveiled. "Pope Francis succumbed to a stroke, which led to a coma and ultimately, an irreversible cardiocirculatory collapse," the Vatican elaborated in a poignant statement. "A comprehensive medical report revealed that the Pope had a backdrop of acute respiratory failure triggered by multi-microbial bilateral pneumonia, multiple bronchiectases, hypertension, and Type II diabetes," the Vatican further noted. "His passing was conclusively verified through electrocardiographic thanatography."
In a video announcement dated April 21, 2025, the Vatican confirmed the demise of the Pope at the age of 88. Less than a month prior to his passing, the pontiff had been discharged from the hospital following respiratory complications stemming from a "double bout of pneumonia."
At precisely 9:45 AM, Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, solemnly proclaimed the Pope's death from the Casa Santa Marta, stating, "Dearest brothers and sisters, it is with profound sorrow that I must announce the passing of our Holy Father Francis," according to a Vatican statement.
Throughout his life, Pope Francis battled numerous health challenges. CNN recounted that he had undergone the removal of a lung in his youth and was hospitalized in February for bronchitis accompanied by pneumonia. Upon his release, the Pope experienced "respiratory difficulties and underwent physiotherapy to regain his voice," CNN reported. Furthermore, News.com.au mentioned that he faced "mild heart issues," including an irregular heartbeat and a torn ligament that confined him to a wheelchair. This spring, the Pontiff suffered episodes of "acute respiratory failure" and was discharged from the hospital on March 23, ABC News confirmed.
In the weeks preceding his death, the Pope necessitated "noninvasive mechanical ventilation" to breathe, ABC News disclosed.
The Vatican's statement also revealed the precise moment of the Pope's demise. "At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father. His life was a testament to serving the Lord and His Church diligently. He instructed us to embody the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage, and boundless love, especially towards the poorest and most marginalized. With profound gratitude for his exemplary life as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we entrust the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite and merciful love of the One and Triune God," it read.
In the aftermath of Pope Francis' passing, the Vatican reflected on his earnest desire to engage all Catholics, ensuring that every individual felt welcomed and cherished by the Church. The Synods he convened directed the Church's focus on various themes, culminating in the Synod on Synodality.
The Vatican added, "As the Holy Father emphasized in a letter to the Theology Faculty of Triveneto in northern Italy, Catholics are called to disseminate Christ's message globally with respect and reverence for the traditions of the past, while remaining receptive to the signs of the times."
CNN reported that Pope Francis's final resting place will be the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, situated across the River Tiber in Rome, offering a serene and eternal home for the beloved leader.
