The Vatican has confirmed that the cause of death of Pope Francis, the head of the Roman Catholic Church, included complications from a stroke that led to a coma and irreversible cardiocirculatory collapse, according to an official medical statement from the Vatican. The announcement was made on Monday evening by Dr. Andrea Arcangeli, Director of the Directorate of Health and Hygiene of the Vatican City State.
The Pope had been in fragile health for some time. The official medical report revealed a history of acute respiratory failure caused by multimicrobial bilateral pneumonia, multiple bronchiectases, high blood pressure, and Type II diabetes. Earlier this year, he had spent 38 days in the hospital following a serious respiratory crisis that developed into double pneumonia. Electrocardiographic tomography determined the final confirmation of his death.
His passing now sets in motion a sequence of traditional Catholic rituals and procedures that follow the death of a pontiff. One of the most significant events will be the Conclave, where eligible cardinals will gather in the Sistine Chapel to vote for the next pope. Until a new pontiff is chosen, the governance of the Catholic Church enters a temporary phase known as “Sede Vacante,” or “the seat being vacant.”
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina, Pope Francis was the first pope from the Americas and the first Jesuit pope. He brought a new tone to the papacy following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI, marking a break with long-standing traditions. While Francis was widely praised for his humility, environmental advocacy, and focus on the poor, his tenure was not without controversy.
International leaders have reacted with expressions of grief and respect for the late pontiff. Nigerian President Bola Tinubu described Pope Francis as “a steadfast advocate for the developing world.” He highlighted the Pope’s efforts to challenge the powerful, call for justice, and emphasize the importance of caring for the planet.
All government buildings in India will fly the national flag at half-mast for two days, including the day of the pontiff’s funeral. The government also announced the suspension of official entertainment as a mark of respect during these days. Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed his condolences, calling the Pope “a beacon of compassion, humility, and spiritual courage.”
Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake stated that the Pope’s commitment to peace, compassion, and humanity had left a lasting global legacy and hoped the Pope’s efforts would continue to inspire future generations in promoting interfaith harmony and social justice.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa also sent his condolences and said people of all faiths were mourning the passing of a spiritual leader who had dedicated himself to unity, equality, and environmental protection. In Bangladesh, Muhammad Yunus called Pope Francis a “towering figure of moral clarity.” He recalled a strong personal connection with the Pope and praised his humility and compassion.
People of all religious backgrounds will mourn Francis, according to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in Australia. He described him as a “loving father” to Catholics and emphasized the Pope’s commitment to universal human dignity and care for the environment.
King Charles III expressed his sorrow at the passing of the pontiff, commending his dedication to compassion, global unity, and ecological preservation. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer also paid tribute, highlighting Francis’s lifelong efforts to create a fairer world.
With Pope Francis’s passing, the Roman Catholic Church now prepares for a pivotal moment of transition. As the global Catholic community mourns, attention will soon turn to the election of a new spiritual leader who will be tasked with continuing or redefining the path Francis set forth.
