Pope Francis, the first Latin American leader of the Roman Catholic Church, has died at the age of 88, as announced by the Vatican on 21 April 2024. His passing marks the end of a turbulent reign during which he endeavoured to reform the Catholic Church.
Details of His Passing
Cardinal Kevin Farrell shared the news through a televised statement, expressing profound sadness: “Dear brothers and sisters, it is with profound sadness I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. At 7.35am this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father.” The pope had been recovering at the Casa Santa Marta, where he battled severe health issues.
Pope’s Health Struggles
- Hospitalised for five weeks earlier in 2024 due to double pneumonia.
- Nearly succumbed twice while receiving treatment.
- Posted updates on his health, acknowledging his fragility.
Despite these challenges, he returned to the Vatican after hospital recovery with a certain resilience, initially needing oxygen support but later able to manage without it for brief periods.
His Legacy
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in 1936, was known for his compassionate approach and extensive engagement with global issues, leading 1.3 billion Roman Catholics worldwide. His tenure as pontiff began in March 2013, during which he undertook a notably expansive Asia-Pacific tour in September 2024, marking a significant milestone in his papacy.
Reflection on His Contributions
Though his reign was often characterised by challenges, his commitment to addressing pressing social issues and promoting unity within the Church remains notable. His messages of hope and faith resonated deeply with many, as he often reminded the faithful that our bodies may falter, but our spirits can never be diminished.