Regardless of current well being challenges, together with a protracted hospitalization for double pneumonia earlier within the yr, Pope Francis remained lively in his duties. On Easter Sunday, only a day earlier than his passing, he made a shock look at St. Peter’s Sq. to bless the trustworthy and met with U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance on the Vatican.
All through his papacy, Francis—born Jorge Mario Bergoglio—left a long-lasting influence on the Catholic Church. He broke custom by appointing ladies as full members of Vatican dicasteries, confirmed higher openness towards the LGBTQ+ neighborhood, and took daring steps on local weather motion. Now, because the world mourns his passing, questions come up about his reason behind demise and what comes subsequent for the Church.
Beneath, study extra about Pope Francis’ well being, the circumstances surrounding his demise, and what occurs subsequent within the papal succession.
Pope Francis’ Well being Battles
Francis was admitted to Gemelli Hospital in Rome, Italy, in mid-February 2025, the place he was handled for bronchitis, however a number of different well being points arose throughout his keep: a “polymicrobial an infection” of his respiratory tract, bilateral (double) pneumonia, and kidney failure.
Throughout his hospitalization, Francis thanked the general public for its help, tweeting on on February 23, 2025, “I’ve not too long ago obtained many messages of affection, and I’ve been significantly struck by the letters and drawings from youngsters. Thanks to your closeness, and for the consoling prayers I’ve obtained from everywhere in the world!”
This wasn’t the primary time that the late pontiff wanted medical remedy for a respiratory situation. In 2023, he was hospitalized for bronchitis. Since at the very least 2022, Francis had been utilizing a wheelchair for mobility resulting from a knee operation.
All through his life, Francis suffered from long-term lung points, which was partially resulting from a lung elimination when he was younger. Regardless of the whole lot, the he denied rumors that arose in 2021 that he was planning to resign resulting from his age and well being points.
How Did Pope Francis Die?
Whereas the Vatican has not formally specified the precise reason behind demise, it’s extensively reported that Pope Francis handed away resulting from problems from his bilateral pneumonia.
What Occurs When the Pope Dies?
When a pope dies, the governance of the Catholic Church quickly shifts to the Camerlengo—presently Cardinal Farrell—who oversees the day-to-day operations of the Vatican till a brand new pope is elected. Whereas Farrell doesn’t have the authority to make doctrinal adjustments, he manages the Church’s administrative capabilities and prepares for the upcoming papal conclave, the place eligible cardinals will collect to elect the following pope.
