A Pontiff’s Final Days
The final chapter of Pope Francis’s earthly life was marked by suffering, yet approached with the same resilience and humility that had defined his pontificate. On February 14, 2025, he was admitted to the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital in Rome. Initially diagnosed with a bout of bronchitis, his condition worsened over the following days. By February 18, doctors diagnosed him with bilateral pneumonia—a serious condition for an 88-year-old man with a history of lung complications.
Pope Francis remained in the hospital for 38 days, a lengthy stay that concerned the global Catholic community. Despite the severity of his illness, there were periodic reports of improvement and even moments when he reportedly resumed light administrative work and prayer.
On March 24, he was discharged and returned to his residence in the Casa Santa Marta, signaling hope that he was recovering. Yet the strain on his health was evident. Observers noted that he appeared physically weakened during his few public messages, although his mind remained sharp and engaged.
Ultimately, the complications from pneumonia led to a fatal stroke on April 21. The Holy See confirmed that he passed away peacefully in his bed, surrounded by a small group of aides and physicians.