Pope Francis — the 266th pope in the rich history of the Catholic Church — has passed away, as confirmed by the Vatican.

“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 His Church,” stated Cardinal Kevin Ferrell in a heartfelt announcement on Monday.

Reports began emerging towards the end of February indicating that the pontiff was preparing for his final moments after being hospitalized due to double pneumonia earlier that month. Additionally, he was undergoing treatment for bronchitis, which further complicated his health.

Many dignitaries took the time to visit him in the hospital during his recovery, including Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who remarked that the pope remained “alert and reactive” throughout his illness.

Pope Francis had faced various health challenges in recent years. Notably, in March 2023, he was admitted to the Gemelli Hospital due to a serious respiratory infection, where he remained for several days under medical care. Earlier in life, he had part of one lung removed following a bout of pleurisy, an inflammation of the membranes surrounding the lungs typically caused by infections.

Prior to his hospitalization, the Vatican reported that Pope Francis had been experiencing breathing difficulties, although he tested negative for COVID-19. Doctors ruled out heart issues and pneumonia based on thorough examinations conducted once he arrived at the hospital.

In June of that year, he faced another setback, spending nine days in the hospital following necessary stomach surgery.

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, ascended to the papacy in 2013. Throughout his tenure, he implemented a variety of reforms, including the introduction of a new constitution for the Catholic Church.

During his time as pope, he was recognized as an eminent theologian within the Catholic Church, often distinguishing himself with more progressive views compared to his predecessor, Pope Benedict. He gained international attention for advocating gay rights and supporting legal protections for same-sex couples, despite the complexities surrounding the topic of marriage.

Pope Francis made history as the first pope to belong to the Jesuit order, the first pope from the Americas, and the first from the Southern Hemisphere. His election marked a significant moment, as he was also the first pope from outside Europe since the 8th century.

He was 88 years old at the time of his passing.

Rest in Peace.