The Vatican has confirmed Pope Francis’ death was caused by a cerebral stroke, which led to a coma and irreversible heart failure.
Pope Francis passes away at 88 after a long health struggle
Pope Francis, the beloved leader of the Catholic Church, has passed away at the age of 88. The Vatican confirmed his death earlier today, April 21.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Camerlengo, delivered the heartbreaking news in a statement.
He 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 home 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 faithfulness, courage, and universal love, especially for the poorest and most marginalised.
Vatican confirms cause of death as cerebral stroke followed by coma and heart failure
The Vatican has officially confirmed that Pope Francis died due to a cerebral stroke. The stroke ultimately led to a coma and irreversible cardiocirculatory collapse.
The Vatican News later updated: “The cause of Pope Francis’ death has been identified as a stroke, followed by a coma and irreversible cardiocirculatory collapse.”
Additionally, Dr. Andrea Arcangeli, Director of the Directorate of Health and Hygiene of Vatican City State, released the official report.
He noted that the Pope had been suffering from various chronic conditions, including high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and a history of acute respiratory failure.
Dr Arcangeli said: “I hereby declare that the causes of death, to the best of my knowledge and judgment, are as stated above.”The Holy Father at the head of the Roman Catholic Church – real name Jorge Mario Bergoglio – gave his final speech just over 24 hours ago in celebration of Easter, addressing the crowds in the Vatican’s St Peter’s Square in a ‘heartbreaking’ speech.
He said: [Translation] “Dear brothers and sisters, Happy Easter! Blessed be the almighty father and son and holy spirit.
“I ask the master of ceremonies to read the message.”
Pope Francis’ health struggles included chronic lung disease and other conditions
Pope Francis’ declining health had been marked by severe chronic conditions.
He had battled multimicrobial bilateral pneumonia, multiple bronchiectasis, and respiratory failure.
Additionally, his health had been deteriorating over the past few months. This led to his eventual stroke and subsequent passing.
Dr. Arcangeli confirmed the stroke, coma, and irreversible collapse as the primary causes of death following electrocardiographic analysis.
Pope Francis delivered a poignant Easter speech just before his passing
Just over 24 hours before his death, Pope Francis addressed the crowd during Easter celebrations in St. Peter’s Square.
His final speech was described as “heartbreaking” as he expressed his deep faith and gratitude to the Church.
In his speech, Pope Francis said, “I sense that I am approaching the twilight of my earthly life, and with firm hope in eternal life, I wish to set out my final wishes.”
In his final testament, Pope Francis detailed his burial wishes, entrusting his mortal remains to rest in the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major.
He requested that his tomb be designed in a fitting manner and outlined how funeral costs should be covered.
Pope Francis expressed gratitude for those who had loved him and prayed for him throughout his life.
He also offered the suffering of his final years for peace and fraternity among all people.