Pope Francis, the Catholic Church’s first Latin American leader, died from a stroke that led to heart failure, according to the Vatican. The Pope’s death has sparked an investigation into the cause of his passing.
Pope Francis Died From A Stroke That Led To Heart Failure, Vatican Says
The cause of Pope Francis’ death was a stroke that led to a coma and ‘irreversible heart failure,’ the ‘Vatican said’.
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on December 17, 1936, is the 266th Pope of the Catholic Church.
He was elected in 2013, succeeding Pope Benedict XVI.
Born in Argentina, Bergoglio studied to become a chemical technician but later pursued a vocation as a priest.
He served as Archbishop of Buenos Aires before becoming Pope.
Known for his progressive views and commitment to social justice, Pope Francis has emphasized the importance of compassion, humility, and environmental protection.
A Medical History Marked by Illnesses
Francis had previously suffered acute respiratory failure caused by multimicrobial bilateral pneumonia, multiple bronchiectases, high blood pressure and Type 2 diabetes. The Holy See press office released a declaration of death report Monday from a Vatican City medical official that outlined ‘Francis’ medical history’.
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, has had a few notable health issues throughout his life.
In 2013, he underwent surgery to remove part of his lung due to a respiratory infection.
In 2020, he cancelled several events due to a bout of 'pneumonia'.
He also uses a wheelchair for mobility and has been spotted using it on various occasions.
Despite these health concerns, Pope Francis remains active in his duties as the head of the Catholic Church.
A Leader Known for His Humility and Concern for the Poor
Known for his humility and concern for the poor, Francis, an Argentine who became the Catholic Church’s first Latin American leader, took the world by storm by pushing the church to become less ‘obsessed’ with culture war issues such as gay marriage and abortion. He encouraged the church to pay more attention to the refugee crisis, climate change, human trafficking, and the global arms trade.
A Final Message for Peace
In his final message on Easter Sunday, Francis made a plea for peace in general, and a ceasefire in Gaza specifically. ‘I would like us to renew our hope that peace is possible,’ he said in the message, which was read aloud by an aide on the main balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica as the pontiff looked on.
Pope Francis, the first Jesuit Pope and the 266th Pope of the Catholic Church, has delivered numerous messages since his election in 2013.
His key messages focus on themes such as poverty reduction, climate change, and social justice.
He emphasizes the importance of compassion, mercy, and forgiveness.
Pope Francis' messages also highlight the need for interfaith dialogue and cooperation to address global challenges.
A Simple Funeral and Burial
The Vatican also said the pope had decided to be buried in St. Mary Major Basilica, which is located outside the gates of the Vatican City, in a simple underground tomb. No date for his funeral has been announced as the search for the next pope begins.
