Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, reported Pope Francis’s death at 7:45 AM.
Cardinal Kevin Ferrell, the Vatican camerlengo, broke the news that Pope Francis had passed away. Pope passed away at the age of 88.
From the Casa Santa Marta, Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, reported Pope Francis’s death at 7:45 AM.
The Cardinal said: “Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of His Church. He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage, and universal love, especially in favor of the poorest and most marginalized. With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite merciful love of the One and Triune God.”
Pope Francis was battling pneumonia in both of his lungs, and the Vatican reports that his condition remains complex and concerning. The pontiff, who was 88 years old, has been dealing with a significant respiratory infection. After experiencing a prolonged bout of bronchitis, the Pope was admitted to the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital on Friday, February 14, 2025.
Following a follow-up chest CT scan, the Vatican disclosed, “The imaging revealed the onset of bilateral pneumonia, which necessitated additional medication.” This further underscores the gravity of his respiratory issues, prompting a modification in his treatment strategy.
Despite his health struggles, Francis maintains an intense work schedule. He completed a 12-day tour of the Asia-Pacific region in September and has undergone major surgeries in 2021 and 2023.
The Pope also suffers from chronic hip and knee pain, requiring him to use a wheelchair most of the time.
The Vatican’s updates on the Pope’s health have been closely followed by Catholics worldwide, with many praying for his recovery. Outside the Gemelli Hospital, a group of nuns and priests gathered to pray for the Pope’s health, expressing hope for his swift recovery.
The clinical condition of Pope Francis deteriorated over time, and his physicians diagnosed bilateral pneumonia on Tuesday, February 18.
The late Pope returned to his Vatican residence at the Casa Santa Marta to resume his recovery after spending 38 days in the hospital.