The entire world remains shaken by the passing of
Pope Francis , but in the last few hours, an unexpected development completely changed the perception of his final days. Although it was believed that his prolonged respiratory problems were responsible for his death, the
Vatican confirmed that the final cause was
a massive stroke , surprising the faithful and the media alike.
For the past few months, the Pope had been facing severe health complications , including pneumonia, bronchitis, and kidney disease. Because of this, many assumed his already weakened respiratory system was what had finally collapsed. However, the official report refuted that version and clarified that it was a cerebrovascular event that caused his sudden coma, followed by what doctors described as irreversible cardiocirculatory collapse .
The 88-year-old pontiff died early Monday morning at Casa Santa Marta , his residence within the Vatican. According to his medical team, he woke up around 6:00 a.m., but just an hour later he began to show signs of deterioration. Half an hour later, he was already in a coma. Everything happened in a short period of time, and, according to authorities, his passing was peaceful and painless , without the need to be transferred to the hospital.
Until now, much of the public attention had focused on his frequent visits to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital , where he was hospitalized several times for serious respiratory conditions. In February, there were even rumors that his health was in critical condition. The Pope had developed acute respiratory failure and was suffering from a complicated infection, in addition to signs of kidney failure. Despite all this, he remained steadfast in his mission and participated—albeit in a limited way—in some liturgical events.
One of the most moving moments of his final weeks was his appearance on Easter Sunday , when he appeared on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica to bless the faithful . His presence, though brief, was greeted with applause and emotion by the thousands gathered in the square. He also held one last diplomatic meeting, receiving US Vice President JD Vance, in what would be one of his last public encounters.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis made history by becoming the first Latin American pontiff in 2013. His approachable, simple, and reformist style marked a turning point in the history of the Catholic Church. He was a staunch defender of the rights of the marginalized , social justice , and care for the planet . He also fearlessly confronted shadowy power structures, including his well-known public condemnation of the Italian mafia.
During his papacy, he promoted an image of a humble, supportive, and empathetic Church . He washed the feet of prisoners, visited the sick, and always reminded everyone that the role of the clergy is to serve, not to impose . His message resonated deeply with both the faithful and world leaders. Former President Barack Obama described him as “ a leader who inspired us to be better people ,” while Michelle Obama highlighted his ability to shake dormant consciences.
The next few days will be crucial for the Church. The Pope’s body will lie in state in St. Peter’s Basilica for three days, and his burial is planned in Santa Maria Maggiore , also in Rome. Meanwhile, the Vatican has begun preparations for a new conclave, which will bring together the College of Cardinals in the next 15 to 20 days to elect his successor.
Argentina has declared a week of national mourning , and at the Vatican, Cardinal Kevin Farrell has been appointed temporary administrator of the Holy See. Francis’ legacy lives on, and the world now watches closely as a new era opens in the history of the Church he helped transform with courage, tenderness, and determination.
