Pope Francis Dies of Stroke and Heart Failure: Global Mourning as Vatican Confirms Tragic Loss
Pope Francis, the 266th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church and a transformative figure revered across the world, has died at the age of 88. According to an official statement from the Vatican on Tuesday, the Pope succumbed to a stroke followed by irreversible cardiocirculatory collapse.
Dr. Andrea Arcangeli, Director of the Directorate of Health and Hygiene of the Vatican City State, issued the official medical certification, revealing the Pope’s prior history of serious health conditions. These included acute respiratory failure due to multimicrobial bilateral pneumonia, multiple bronchiectases, hypertension, and Type II diabetes.
“His death was confirmed through electrocardiographic thanatography. I hereby declare, that the causes of death, to the best of my knowledge and judgment, are as stated above,” said Arcangeli.
The death of Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, marks the end of a deeply impactful papacy. Known for his progressive reforms, vocal advocacy for social justice, and dedication to the poor and marginalized, Francis broke traditions and brought the Catholic Church closer to contemporary societal issues.
He opted not to reside in the lavish Apostolic Palace penthouse but chose a modest two-room suite in the Vatican’s Saint Martha guesthouse, reflecting his preference for simplicity and humility.
Vatican Initiates Protocol for Successor
The Vatican announced that the Pope’s body will lie in repose in a chapel within his personal residence, allowing dignitaries, clergy, and the faithful to pay their final respects.
His passing sets into motion the Church’s process of selecting a new pope. Cardinals from around the world will convene in Rome for a papal conclave, an ancient ritual that determines the next spiritual leader of over 1.3 billion Catholics. While traditionally the conclave begins after a 15-day mourning period, a reform introduced by Pope Benedict XVI allows cardinals to begin the election earlier if they choose.
Kenya Mourns the Pontiff
In Kenya, President William Ruto led the nation in mourning, describing Pope Francis as a beacon of compassion and a tireless advocate for the underprivileged.
“He exemplified servant leadership through his humility, his unwavering commitment to inclusivity and justice, and his deep compassion for the poor and the vulnerable,” said Ruto.
Catholics and religious communities across Kenya have organized special Masses and prayer vigils to honour the Pope’s life and legacy.
Pope Francis’s death is a monumental moment for the Catholic Church and the global community. His papacy will be remembered for its call to action on climate change, migration, economic injustice, and religious tolerance.
As the Church prepares to choose his successor, the world pauses to reflect on the legacy of a pope who dared to challenge the status quo and redefined what it means to lead with love.
In other news:Nine Cardinals Who Could Succeed Pope Francis
Pope Francis Dies of Stroke and Heart Failure: Global Mourning as Vatican Confirms Tragic Loss