Pope Francis Passes Away at 88, Leaving a Legacy

• Pope Francis, leader of the Roman Catholic Church, passed away at 88 due to respiratory ailments.
• His health deteriorated after a diagnosis of bilateral pneumonia, leading to his peaceful departure on Easter Monday.
• Cardinal Kevin Farrell announced his death, praising his life dedicated to service and the Gospel’s values.
• In line with his humility, Pope Francis requested simplified funeral rites, emphasizing his role as a pastor and disciple of Christ.

The world was informed of the passing of Pope Francis, the leader of the Roman Catholic Church, who had been battling respiratory ailments and pneumonia. His peaceful departure occurred on Easter Monday at the age of 88 at his residence, the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta. Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, had a long history of respiratory issues. In his early 20s, he underwent surgery in his native Argentina to remove a portion of his lung affected by a severe respiratory infection. As he aged, these respiratory illnesses became a recurring issue, even leading to the cancellation of a planned visit to the United Arab Emirates in November 2023 due to influenza and lung inflammation.

A Battle with Illness

In February of this year, the Pope was admitted to the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital after suffering from bronchitis for several days. His condition worsened, and he was diagnosed with bilateral pneumonia four days later. After spending 38 days in the hospital, he returned to his Vatican residence to continue his recovery. However, his health did not improve, and he passed away on Easter Monday. The announcement of his death was made by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, from the Casa Santa Marta. In a heartfelt address, he said, 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, 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 marginalized. 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.

A Humble Request for Simplicity

In line with his humble nature and dedication to the faith, Pope Francis had requested that his funeral rites be simplified. According to Vatican News, the news portal of the Holy See, the Pope wanted his funeral to be focused on expressing the faith of the Church in the Risen Body of Christ. Archbishop Diego Ravelli, Master of Apostolic Ceremonies, further explained that the renewed rite seeks to emphasize that the funeral of the Roman Pontiff is that of a pastor and disciple of Christ and not of a powerful person of this world. The late Pope Francis had approved an updated edition of the liturgical book for papal funeral rites in April 2024. This edition introduces several new elements, including how the Pope’s mortal remains are to be handled after death. The ascertainment of death now takes place in the chapel, rather than in the room where he died, and his body is immediately placed inside the coffin.

The passing of Pope Francis marks a significant moment in the history of the Catholic Church. His life and teachings have left an indelible mark on the hearts of millions around the world. As the world mourns his loss, his legacy of love, courage, and service to the marginalized will continue to inspire generations to come. His life was a testament to the power of faith and the importance of service, and his memory will continue to guide the Church and its followers in the years to come.