'At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father,' Farrell said in a statement.
"His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of his Church," he added.
Pope Francis' passing on Easter Monday is a blow to the global Catholic community, casting a shadow over one of the most sacred days in the Christian calendar. It leaves millions mourning during a time traditionally reserved for hope and renewal.
The Pope had been hospitalised several times in recent months due to health concerns, the most critical of which occurred in late February. On February 28, Pope Francis suffered a severe breathing crisis and was rushed to Rome's Gemelli Hospital.
Dr. Sergio Alfieri, the Pope's lead physician, revealed that at one point, the medical team seriously considered halting treatment due to the pontiff's deteriorating condition.
Pope Francis experienced a violent bronchospasm and aspirated vomit, which endangered multiple organ systems. The medical team faced a critical decision: whether to stop treatment and allow him to pass peacefully, or continue with aggressive interventions despite the risk of further damage to his organs.
After a tense discussion, they chose to proceed with treatment, and Pope Francis remained alert during the crisis, although at one point, doctors feared he might not survive the night.
Thanks to quick intervention and the efforts of his medical team, which included a non-invasive aspiration procedure and intensive medication, Pope Francis' condition was stabilised. However, just days later, he suffered a second acute respiratory episode, which required the insertion of a specialised tube to clear his lungs.
The Vatican's transparency during the Pope's hospitalisation was notable, with daily updates on his condition. According to Dr. Alfieri, Pope Francis insisted on honesty about his health status, stating, 'He wanted the truth about his condition to be shared. Nothing was hidden or omitted.'
After 38 days in the hospital, the Pope was discharged on March 23, appearing frail but determined. He thanked well-wishers from a hospital balcony, expressing gratitude for their prayers. Following his discharge, the Vatican confirmed that Pope Francis would undergo a strict two-month recovery period at his Vatican residence, Casa Santa Marta, with continuous medical supervision and oxygen support.
Despite his recovery, Pope Francis continued to face health challenges.
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina, became the 266th Pope of the Catholic Church in 2013, following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI on February 28, 2013.
Known for his humility, compassion, and commitment to social justice, he broke new ground in the papacy, emphasizing the importance of caring for the poor, the environment, and promoting interfaith dialogue.
Wycliffe Nyamasege
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/pope-francis-dies-at-88
