Pope Francis, a voice for the poor who overcame fierce resistance to reshape the Catholic Church, died on Monday, the Vatican announced. He was 88.

Francis was elected in 2013 after Benedict XVI retired. He was the first Latin American pope in history and the first from the Americas. Before he was pope, he was Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio, the archbishop of Buenos Aires.

He chose the name Francis to honor St. Francis of Assisi, who is revered among Catholics for his work with the poor.

As pope, Francis championed the poor, migrants and the environment, and he quickly gained a reputation as a modernizer, with an outward-facing approach that saw him speak out boldly on humanitarian crises such as migration, war and climate change. He also sought to reform the church by tackling elitist mentalities among the clergy, demanding a compassionate approach to divorced and gay Catholics and insisting that the church welcome everyone.

Francis, seen at left with his brother Oscar, was born on December 17, 1936. He was the eldest child of Mario and Regina Bergoglio, Italian immigrants in Argentina.
Francis, seen at left with his brother Oscar, was born on December 17, 1936. He was the eldest child of Mario and Regina Bergoglio, Italian immigrants in Argentina.
Family Photo
Francis as a young boy.
Francis as a young boy.
Family Photo
Francis with his parents in 1958.
Francis with his parents in 1958.
Handout
Francis was ordained as a priest in 1969. In high school, he studied to become a chemical technician.
Francis was ordained as a priest in 1969. In high school, he studied to become a chemical technician.
Family Photo
Francis poses for a photo during an Easter procession in 2000. A couple of years earlier he had become the archbishop of Buenos Aires.
Francis poses for a photo during an Easter procession in 2000. A couple of years earlier he had become the archbishop of Buenos Aires.
Espinola Family/AP
In 2001, Francis was made a cardinal by Pope John Paul II.
In 2001, Francis was made a cardinal by Pope John Paul II.
AFP/Getty Images
Francis greets parishioners in Buenos Aires.
Francis greets parishioners in Buenos Aires.
Claudia Conteris/AFP/Getty Images
The future pope washes a woman's feet at a maternity hospital in Buenos Aires in 2005.
The future pope washes a woman's feet at a maternity hospital in Buenos Aires in 2005.
Tony Gomez/Reuters
Francis meets Pope Benedict XVI, the man he would eventually succeed, while on a trip to the Vatican in 2007.
Francis meets Pope Benedict XVI, the man he would eventually succeed, while on a trip to the Vatican in 2007.
Arturo Mari/Osservatore Romano/AFP/Getty Images
Francis takes public transportation before celebrating Mass in Buenos Aires in 2008. As archbishop of Buenos Aires, Bergoglio took the bus to work and cooked his own meals.
Francis takes public transportation before celebrating Mass in Buenos Aires in 2008. As archbishop of Buenos Aires, Bergoglio took the bus to work and cooked his own meals.
Emiliano Lasalvia/LatinContent/Getty Images
Francis holds Mass outside a church in Buenos Aires in 2009.
Francis holds Mass outside a church in Buenos Aires in 2009.
Natacha Pisarenko/AP
Francis gives holy communion to Roberto Bendini, Argentina's former army chief, in 2009.
Francis gives holy communion to Roberto Bendini, Argentina's former army chief, in 2009.
Martin Zabala/AP
Francis waves to the crowd from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica after he was elected as the 266th pope on March 13, 2013. Benedict XVI had announced his retirement a month earlier, citing his "advanced age."
Francis waves to the crowd from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica after he was elected as the 266th pope on March 13, 2013. Benedict XVI had announced his retirement a month earlier, citing his "advanced age."
Gregorio Borgia/AP
People watch the new Pope after he was introduced at the Vatican. In addition to being the first Latin American pope and the first from the Americas, Francis is also the first Jesuit pope. He's also the first non-European pope in more than 1,000 years.
People watch the new pope after he was introduced at the Vatican. In addition to being the first Latin American pope and the first from the Americas, Francis is also the first Jesuit pope. He's also the first non-European pope in more than 1,000 years.
Andreas Solaro/AFP/Getty Images
A day after his election, the Pope pays his lodging bill at the Paulus VI, where he stayed during conclave.
A day after his election, the pope pays his lodging bill at the Paulus VI, where he stayed during conclave.
Osservatore Romano/AFP/Getty Images
The Pope answers reporters' questions while flying back from a trip to Brazil in July 2013. During the impromptu news conference, the Pope said that he would not "judge" gays and lesbians, including gay priests. "If someone is gay and he searches for the Lord and has good will, who am I to judge?" he said. Many saw the move as the opening of a more tolerant era in the Catholic Church.
The pope answers reporters' questions while flying back from a trip to Brazil in July 2013. During the impromptu news conference, the pope said that he would not "judge" gays and lesbians, including gay priests. "If someone is gay and he searches for the Lord and has good will, who am I to judge?" he said. Many saw the move as the opening of a more tolerant era in the Catholic Church.
Luca Zennaro/AP
In November 2013, the Pope dons a red nose with members of the Rainbow Association Marco Iagulli Onlus. The charity uses clown therapy in hospitals, nursing homes and orphanages.
In November 2013, the pope dons a red nose with members of the Rainbow Association Marco Iagulli Onlus. The charity uses clown therapy in hospitals, nursing homes and orphanages.
Realy Easy Star/Alamy Live News
Francis was named Time magazine's Person of the Year in 2013.
Francis was named Time magazine's Person of the Year in 2013. "For pulling the papacy out of the palace and into the streets, for committing the world’s largest church to confronting its deepest needs and for balancing judgment with mercy, Pope Francis is TIME's 2013 Person of the Year," wrote managing editor Nancy Gibbs.
From Time Magazine
The Pope is presented with a gift by Argentine President Cristina Fernández during a private audience at the Vatican in March 2014.
The pope is presented with a gift by Argentine President Cristina Fernández during a private audience at the Vatican in March 2014.
Alberto Pizzoli/AP
Britain's Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip have an audience with the Pope during their one-day visit to Rome in April 2014.
Britain's Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip have an audience with the pope during their one-day visit to Rome in April 2014.
Oli Scarff/Getty Images
Francis prays next to a rabbi at the Western Wall in Jerusalem's Old City in May 2014. The Pope went on a three-day trip to the Holy Land, and he was accompanied by Jewish and Muslim leaders from his home country of Argentina.
Francis prays next to a rabbi at the Western Wall in Jerusalem's Old City in May 2014. The pope went on a three-day trip to the Holy Land, and he was accompanied by Jewish and Muslim leaders from his home country of Argentina.
Vincenzo Pinto/AFP/Getty Images
The Pope signs a guestbook while meeting with bishops in Seoul, South Korea, in August 2014.
The pope signs a guestbook while meeting with bishops in Seoul, South Korea, in August 2014.
Handout/Getty Images
The Pope kisses a girl during a special audience at the Vatican in November 2014.
The pope kisses a girl during a special audience at the Vatican in November 2014.
Alessandro Bianchi/Reuters
Pope Francis pauses in the Vatican's St. Peter's Square in November 2014.
Pope Francis pauses in the Vatican's St. Peter's Square in November 2014.
Tony Gentile/Reuters
Francis blows out candles on a cake as he celebrated his 78th birthday in December 2014.
Francis blows out candles on a cake as he celebrated his 78th birthday in December 2014.
Tony Gentile/Reuters/Newscom
Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, right, greets Pope Francis at St. Peter's Basilica in February 2015.
Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, right, greets Pope Francis at St. Peter's Basilica in February 2015.
L'Osservatore Romano/Pool/AP
Pope Francis prays on the floor of St. Peter's Basilica while observing Good Friday in April 2015.
Pope Francis prays on the floor of St. Peter's Basilica while observing Good Friday in April 2015.
Gabriel Bouys/AFP/Getty Images
People in Quito, Ecuador, gather near a huge video screen broadcasting the Pope's visit to the city in July 2015.
People in Quito, Ecuador, gather near a huge video screen broadcasting the pope's visit to the city in July 2015.
Gregorio Borgia/AP
Francis shakes hands with former Cuban leader Fidel Castro in September 2015. During his trip to Cuba, the Pope praised the reconciliations taking place between Cuba and the United States.
Francis shakes hands with former Cuban leader Fidel Castro in September 2015. During his trip to Cuba, the pope praised the reconciliations taking place between Cuba and the United States.
Alex Castro/AP
Francis addresses a joint session of the US Congress in September 2015.
Francis addresses a joint session of the US Congress in September 2015. He challenged America to embrace millions of undocumented immigrants and join a global campaign against climate change and poverty.
Jim Watson/AFP/Getty Images
The pope walks with US President Barack Obama prior to an Oval Office meeting at the White House in September 2015. It was his first trip to the United States. During the trip, Francis also visited St. Matthew’s Cathedral and held a Mass on the grounds of the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception.
The pope walks with US President Barack Obama prior to an Oval Office meeting at the White House in September 2015. It was his first trip to the United States. During the trip, Francis also visited St. Matthew’s Cathedral and held a Mass on the grounds of the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception.
Alex Wong/Getty Images
The Pope waves to a crowd from the US Capitol in September 2015.
The pope waves to a crowd from the US Capitol in September 2015.
Doug Mills/The New York Times/Redux
Pope Francis speaks at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2015. During <a href="index.php?page=&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cnn.com%2F2015%2F09%2F25%2Fworld%2Fpope-un-speech%2Findex.html">his speech</a>, he urged world leaders to adopt concrete solutions to combat widespread poverty and environmental destruction.
Pope Francis speaks at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2015. During his speech, he urged world leaders to adopt concrete solutions to combat widespread poverty and environmental destruction.
Michael Kappeler/picture-alliance/dpa/AP
The Pope celebrates Mass at New York's Madison Square Garden during his trip to the United States.
The pope celebrates Mass at New York's Madison Square Garden during his trip to the United States.
Michael Appleton-Pool/Getty Images
The pope kisses a baby at the Vatican in October 2015.
The pope kisses a baby at the Vatican in October 2015.
Filippo Monteforte/AFP via Getty Images
The pope opens the Holy Door to mark the opening of the Catholic Holy Year, or Jubilee, at the Vatican's St. Peter's Basilica in December 2015.
The pope opens the Holy Door to mark the opening of the Catholic Holy Year, or Jubilee, at the Vatican's St. Peter's Basilica in December 2015.
Max Rossi/Reuters
Francis tries on a traditional sombrero he received as a gift from a Mexican journalist while on a flight to the country in February 2016.
Francis tries on a traditional sombrero he received as a gift from a Mexican journalist while on a flight to the country in February 2016.
Alessandro Di Meo/Pool/AP
Pope Francis waves to the crowd after celebrating Mass in San Cristobal de las Casas, Mexico, in February 2016.
Pope Francis waves to the crowd after celebrating Mass in San Cristobal de las Casas, Mexico, in February 2016.
Eduardo Verdugo/AP
The Pope meets migrants at the Moria refugee camp on the Greek island of Lesbos in April 2016. He received an emotional welcome <a href="index.php?page=&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cnn.com%2F2016%2F04%2F16%2Feurope%2Fpope-visits-refugees-lesbos%2F" target="_blank">during a visit</a> in which he showed solidarity with migrants fleeing war and poverty.
The pope meets migrants at the Moria refugee camp on the Greek island of Lesbos in April 2016. He received an emotional welcome during a visit in which he showed solidarity with migrants fleeing war and poverty.
Andrea Bonetti/Greek Prime Minister's Office/Getty Images
Francis passes the main entrance to Auschwitz-Birkenau, the former concentration camp in Poland, in July 2016. The Pope <a href="index.php?page=&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cnn.com%2F2016%2F07%2F29%2Feurope%2Fpoland-pope-auschwitz-visit%2F" target="_blank">was there to pay tribute</a> to those who died in the Holocaust.
Francis passes the main entrance to Auschwitz-Birkenau, the former concentration camp in Poland, in July 2016. The pope was there to pay tribute to those who died in the Holocaust.
Filippo Monteforte/AFP/Getty Images
Pope Francis holds a newborn during an impromptu visit to the neonatal unit of a Rome hospital in September 2016.
Pope Francis holds a newborn during an impromptu visit to the neonatal unit of a Rome hospital in September 2016.
Abaca Press/Sipa USA via AP
The Pope releases a dove as a symbol of peace while in Tbilisi, Georgia, in September 2016.
The pope releases a dove as a symbol of peace while in Tbilisi, Georgia, in September 2016.
Vincenzo Pinto/AFP/Getty images
Francis and a group of cardinals meet with Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI in a chapel at the Vatican in November 2016.
Francis and a group of cardinals meet with Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI in a chapel at the Vatican in November 2016.
Sipa USA/Sipa USA
The Pope poses with members of the International Rural Catholic Association while at the Vatican in December 2016.
The pope poses with members of the International Rural Catholic Association while at the Vatican in December 2016.
L'Osservatore Romano/Pool/AP
Francis and Pope Tawadros II, the head of Egypt's Coptic Orthodox Church, sign a joint declaration in Cairo in April 2017. Francis was on a <a href="index.php?page=&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cnn.com%2F2017%2F04%2F28%2Fafrica%2Fegypt-pope-visit%2F" target="_blank">two-day trip to Egypt</a> to forge Muslim-Christian brotherhood and show solidarity with the country's persecuted Coptic Christian minority.
Francis and Pope Tawadros II, the head of Egypt's Coptic Orthodox Church, sign a joint declaration in Cairo in April 2017. Francis was on a two-day trip to Egypt to forge Muslim-Christian brotherhood and show solidarity with the country's persecuted Coptic Christian minority.
L'Osservatore Romano/AP
Francis stands with US President Donald Trump and his family during a <a href="index.php?page=&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cnn.com%2Finteractive%2F2017%2F05%2Fpolitics%2Ftrump-foreign-trip-cnnphotos%2F" target="_blank">private audience at the Vatican</a> in May 2017. Joining the President are his wife, Melania, and his daughter Ivanka.
Francis stands with US President Donald Trump and his family during a private audience at the Vatican in May 2017. Joining the President are his wife, Melania, and his daughter Ivanka.
Evan Vucci, Pool/AP
The Pope speaks to the crew aboard the International Space Station in October 2017. It was second papal phone call to space: Pope Benedict XVI rang the space station in 2011.
The pope speaks to the crew aboard the International Space Station in October 2017. It was second papal phone call to space: Pope Benedict XVI rang the space station in 2011.
L'Osservatore Romano/Pool/AP
Francis leads the Way of the Cross torchlight procession in front of the Colosseum in Rome in March 2018.
Francis leads the Way of the Cross torchlight procession in front of the Colosseum in Rome in March 2018.
Eric Vandeville/Abaca/Sipa USA/AP
The Pope is greeted by a group of nuns at the Vatican in August 2018.
The pope is greeted by a group of nuns at the Vatican in August 2018.
Andrew Medichini/AP
Francis arrives with the "popemobile" in St. Peter's Square in October 2018.
Francis arrives with the "popemobile" in St. Peter's Square in October 2018.
Gregorio Borgia/AP
Francis celebrates Mass as seven new saints were recognized in October 2018.
Francis celebrates Mass as seven new saints were recognized in October 2018.
Alessandra Benedetti/Corbis/Getty Images
The pope waves to people in St. Peter's Square in November 2018.
The pope waves to people in St. Peter's Square in November 2018.
Filippo Monteforte/AFP via Getty Images
Pope Francis is framed by cell phones as he greets people at the Vatican in January 2019.
Pope Francis is framed by cell phones as he greets people at the Vatican in January 2019.
Andrew Medichini/AP
The Pope celebrates Mass in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, in February 2019. It was <a href="index.php?page=&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cnn.com%2F2019%2F02%2F05%2Fmiddleeast%2Fpope-uae-moments%2Findex.html" target="_blank">the first time</a> a pope has visited an Arab Gulf state, and it was the first time a pope had celebrated Mass in the Arabian Peninsula, the birthplace of Islam.
The pope celebrates Mass in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, in February 2019. It was the first time a pope has visited an Arab Gulf state, and it was the first time a pope had celebrated Mass in the Arabian Peninsula, the birthplace of Islam.
Francois Nel/Getty Images
Francis receives Russian President Vladimir Putin and his delegation in July 2019.
Francis receives Russian President Vladimir Putin and his delegation in July 2019.
Vatican Pool/Getty Images
The Pope walks with cardinals during a Palm Sunday Mass in April 2019.
The pope walks with cardinals during a Palm Sunday Mass in April 2019.
Tiziana Fabi/AFP/Getty Images
The Pope delivers a speech during a meeting of religious leaders at a university in Bangkok, Thailand, in November 2019. Thailand was the start of a seven-day Asia trip that also saw the Pope visit Japan.
The pope delivers a speech during a meeting of religious leaders at a university in Bangkok, Thailand, in November 2019. Thailand was the start of a seven-day Asia trip that also saw the pope visit Japan.
Gemunu Amarasinghe/AP
The Pope walks out from Assumption Cathedral as young people reach out to touch him in Bangkok.
The pope walks out from Assumption Cathedral as young people reach out to touch him in Bangkok.
Paula Bronstein/Getty Images
Pope Francis presides over a moment of prayer at an empty St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican in March 2020. It was the early days of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Pope Francis presides over a moment of prayer at an empty St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican in March 2020. It was the early days of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Yara Nardi/Pool/AFP via Getty Images
The Pope prays with priests in a Vatican courtyard in September 2020.
The pope prays with priests in a Vatican courtyard in September 2020.
Filippo Monteforte/AFP/Getty Images
Francis, surrounded by the remains of destroyed churches, is driven in Mosul, Iraq, in March 2021. The Pope was in Iraq for four days. It was <a href="index.php?page=&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cnn.com%2F2021%2F03%2F05%2Fworld%2Fgallery%2Fpope-francis-iraq%2Findex.html" target="_blank">the first-ever papal visit to Iraq,</a> and it was Francis' first trip outside Italy since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Francis, surrounded by the remains of destroyed churches, is driven in Mosul, Iraq, in March 2021. The pope was in Iraq for four days. It was the first-ever papal visit to Iraq, and it was Francis' first trip outside Italy since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Yara Nardi/Reuters
The Pope celebrates Easter Mass in April 2021.
The pope celebrates Easter Mass in April 2021.
Filippo Monteforte/AFP/Getty Images
Francis <a href="index.php?page=&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cnn.com%2Fvideos%2Fbusiness%2F2021%2F06%2F24%2Fspiderman-meets-pope-moos-pkg-vpx.cnn" target="_blank">shakes hands with a man dressed as Spider-Man</a> while visiting with people at the Vatican in June 2021. The masked man, who works with sick children in hospitals, also gave a Spider-Man mask to the Pope.
Francis shakes hands with a man dressed as Spider-Man while visiting with people at the Vatican in June 2021. The masked man, who works with sick children in hospitals, also gave a Spider-Man mask to the pope.
Franco Origlia/Getty Images
The Pope holds Mass at the Vatican in September 2021.
The pope holds Mass at the Vatican in September 2021.
Filippo Monteforte/AFP/Getty Images
US President Joe Biden gives the Pope a challenge coin during <a href="index.php?page=&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cnn.com%2F2021%2F10%2F29%2Fpolitics%2Fpope-francis-joe-biden-meeting%2Findex.html" target="_blank">his trip to the Vatican</a> in October 2021. Between them is Italian translator Elisabetta Savigni Ullmann. Challenge coins originated in the military, and <a href="index.php?page=&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cnn.com%2F2021%2F10%2F29%2Fpolitics%2Fchallenge-coin-joe-biden-pope-francis%2Findex.html" target="_blank">this one</a> included the insignia of a Delaware Army National Guard unit that Biden's son Beau served in. Biden said during his visit that coins are given to "warriors and leaders" and that the pope is "the most significant warrior for peace I've ever met." Biden, a devout lifelong Catholic, met with the Pope for 90 minutes and said he discussed "a lot of personal things" with the pontiff. It was the fourth meeting between Francis and Biden, but their first since Biden became President.
US President Joe Biden gives the pope a challenge coin during his trip to the Vatican in October 2021. Between them is Italian translator Elisabetta Savigni Ullmann. Challenge coins originated in the military, and this one included the insignia of a Delaware Army National Guard unit that Biden's son Beau served in. Biden said during his visit that coins are given to "warriors and leaders" and that the pope is "the most significant warrior for peace I've ever met." Biden, a devout lifelong Catholic, met with the pope for 90 minutes and said he discussed "a lot of personal things" with the pontiff. It was the fourth meeting between Francis and Biden, but their first since Biden became President.
Divisione Produzione Fotografica/AP
The Pope boards a flight to Malta in April 2022.
The pope boards a flight to Malta in April 2022.
Alessandra Tarantino/AP
The Pope shows a flag that was brought to him from Bucha, Ukraine, during one of his general audiences at the Vatican in April 2022.
The pope shows a flag that was brought to him from Bucha, Ukraine, during one of his general audiences at the Vatican in April 2022.
Alessandra Tarantino/AP
The Pope leads a prayer from his window at the Vatican in June 2022.
The pope leads a prayer from his window at the Vatican in June 2022.
Remo Casilli/Reuters
The Pope dons a headdress while visiting with Indigenous people in Maskwacis, Alberta, in July 2022. As he kicked off a weeklong "penitential pilgrimage" to Canada, <a href="index.php?page=&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cnn.com%2F2022%2F07%2F25%2Famericas%2Fpope-francis-canada-speech-intl%2Findex.html" target="_blank">Francis spoke of his "sorrow, indignation and shame"</a> over the Catholic Church's role in the abuse of Canadian Indigenous children in residential schools. He apologized and promised a "serious investigation" into what happened.
The pope dons a headdress while visiting with Indigenous people in Maskwacis, Alberta, in July 2022. As he kicked off a weeklong "penitential pilgrimage" to Canada, Francis spoke of his "sorrow, indignation and shame" over the Catholic Church's role in the abuse of Canadian Indigenous children in residential schools. He apologized and promised a "serious investigation" into what happened.
Eric Gay/AP
The Pope speaks with Bahrain's King Hamad bin Isa al-Khalifa during their meeting in Awali, Bahrain, in November 2022.
The pope speaks with Bahrain's King Hamad bin Isa al-Khalifa during their meeting in Awali, Bahrain, in November 2022.
Marco Bertorello/AFP/Getty Images
Pope Francis touches the coffin of former Pope Benedict XVI in January 2023. <a href="index.php?page=&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cnn.com%2F2023%2F01%2F05%2Fworld%2Fgallery%2Fpope-benedict-xvi-funeral%2Findex.html">Benedict's funeral </a>was attended by tens of thousands at St. Peter's Square.
Pope Francis touches the coffin of former Pope Benedict XVI in January 2023. Benedict's funeral was attended by tens of thousands at St. Peter's Square.
Vatican Media/­Reuters
The Pope leaves Ndjili International Airport to attend a meeting in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo, in January 2023. <a href="index.php?page=&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cnn.com%2F2023%2F02%2F01%2Fafrica%2Fpope-francis-drc-kinshasa-mass-intl%2Findex.html" target="_blank">Francis' visit to the DRC</a> — the first papal visit since 1985 — was part of a six-day trip that also included South Sudan. In those two countries, Catholics comprise about half of the population and the Church is a key stakeholder in health and education systems as well as in democracy-building efforts.
The pope leaves Ndjili International Airport to attend a meeting in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo, in January 2023. Francis' visit to the DRC — the first papal visit since 1985 — was part of a six-day trip that also included South Sudan. In those two countries, Catholics comprise about half of the population and the Church is a key stakeholder in health and education systems as well as in democracy-building efforts.
Vatican Pool/Getty Images
People reach out to touch the pope at the Vatican in March 2023.
People reach out to touch the pope at the Vatican in March 2023.
Yara Nardi/Reuters
Pope Francis consoles Serena Subania, whose 5-year-old daughter, Angelica, died the day before he left a hospital in Rome in April 2023. He was discharged after receiving treatment for bronchitis, the Vatican said.
Pope Francis consoles Serena Subania, whose 5-year-old daughter, Angelica, died the day before he left a hospital in Rome in April 2023. He was discharged after receiving treatment for bronchitis, the Vatican said.
Gregorio Borgia/AP
The Pope leaves Palm Sunday Mass at St. Peter's Square in April 2023. It was a day after he was discharged from the hospital, where he was treated for a respiratory infection.
The pope leaves Palm Sunday Mass at St. Peter's Square in April 2023.
Gregorio Borgia/AP
Pope Francis <a href="index.php?page=&url=https%3A%2F%2Fedition.cnn.com%2Feurope%2Flive-news%2Frussia-war-news-05-13-23%2Fh_c49d84663b4073ba4db70521603cca3a" target="_blank">meets with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky</a> at the Vatican in May 2023. It was the first face-to-face meeting between Zelensky and the Pope since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. The Pope has been outspoken in his support for an end to the war.
Pope Francis meets with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the Vatican in May 2023. It was the first face-to-face meeting between Zelensky and the pope since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. The pope has been outspoken in his support for an end to the war.
Vatican Pool/Getty Images
The Pope waves to people in St. Peter's Square in June 2023. <a href="index.php?page=&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cnn.com%2F2023%2F06%2F07%2Feurope%2Fpope-hospital-surgery-intl%2Findex.html" target="_blank">He was on his way to a Rome hospital for abdominal surgery</a>. The procedure was to repair a hernia that the Vatican said was causing "recurrent, painful and worsening" symptoms.
The pope waves to people in St. Peter's Square in June 2023. He was on his way to a Rome hospital for abdominal surgery. The procedure was to repair a hernia that the Vatican said was causing "recurrent, painful and worsening" symptoms.
Andreas Solaro/AFP/Getty Images
Pope Francis is welcomed by Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa after landing in Lisbon, Portugal, to attend a World Youth Day gathering in August 2023.
Pope Francis is welcomed by Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa after landing in Lisbon, Portugal, to attend a World Youth Day gathering in August 2023.
Marco Bertorello/AFP/Getty Images
Pope Francis greets a child during a welcoming ceremony in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, in September 2023.
Pope Francis greets a child during a welcoming ceremony in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, in September 2023.
Carlos Garcia Rawlins/Reuters
Pope Francis poses for a photo on the day of the weekly general audience at the Vatican, September 13, 2023. Vatican Media/-Handout via REUTERS ATTENTION EDITORS - THIS IMAGE WAS PROVIDED BY A THIRD PARTY. TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY
The pope poses for a photo as he holds his weekly general audience at the Vatican in September 2023.
Vatican Media/Handout/Reuters
Pope Francis appears on a giant monitor set up in the Vatican's St. Peter's Square in December 2023. Francis led his customary Angelus prayer from his home rather than from the window of the Vatican's Apostolic Palace overlooking the square. He was suffering from what he described as "severe bronchitis," and he was avoiding being exposed to the cold weather.
Pope Francis appears on a giant monitor set up in the Vatican's St. Peter's Square in December 2023. Francis led his customary Angelus prayer from his home rather than from the window of the Vatican's Apostolic Palace overlooking the square. He was suffering from what he described as "severe bronchitis," and he was avoiding being exposed to the cold weather.
Andrew Medichini/AP
The Pope drinks mate offered by Argentinian pilgrims who were visiting the Vatican in January 2024.
The pope drinks mate offered by Argentinian pilgrims who were visiting the Vatican in January 2024.
Vatican Media/Vatican Pool/Getty Images
Pope Francis arrives for his weekly general audience in February 2024. He was later taken to the hospital with flu symptoms.
Pope Francis arrives for his weekly general audience in February 2024. He was later taken to the hospital with flu symptoms.
Tiziana Fabi/AFP/Getty Images
The pope presides over the Easter Vigil at St. Peter's Basilica in March 2024.
The pope presides over the Easter Vigil at St. Peter's Basilica in March 2024.
Yara Nardi/Reuters
Pope Francis takes part in a <a href="index.php?page=&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cnn.com%2F2024%2F06%2F12%2Ftech%2Fpope-francis-g7-artificial-intelligence-intl-cmd%2Findex.html" target="_blank">working session on artificial intelligence</a> during the G7 summit near Bari, Italy, in June 2024. Francis, the first pope to participate in the summit, is determined to use the soft power of his office to try to ensure that the development of AI serves humanity and does not turn into a 21st-century Frankenstein's monster.
Pope Francis takes part in a working session on artificial intelligence during the G7 summit near Bari, Italy, in June 2024. Francis, the first pope to participate in the summit, is determined to use the soft power of his office to try to ensure that the development of AI serves humanity and does not turn into a 21st-century Frankenstein's monster.
Ludovic Marin/AFP/Getty Images
Pope Francis meets with Chris Rock, Jimmy Fallon and other comedians during a cultural event at the Vatican in June 2024. “You unite people, because laughter is contagious,” <a href="index.php?page=&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cnn.com%2F2024%2F06%2F14%2Feurope%2Fpope-comedians-vatican-intl-hnk%2Findex.html">the pope told the comedians</a>, adding that he has prayed for 40 years for a good sense of humor.
Pope Francis meets with Chris Rock, Jimmy Fallon and other comedians during a cultural event at the Vatican in June 2024. “You unite people, because laughter is contagious,” the pope told the comedians, adding that he has prayed for 40 years for a good sense of humor.
Simone Risoluti/Vatican Media/Handout/Reuters
Indonesia's President Joko Widodo and Pope Francis watch as the honor guards march past during a ceremonial welcome at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta, Indonesia, on September 4, 2024.
The pope and Indonesian President Joko Widodo watch honor guards march past during a ceremonial welcome at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta, Indonesia, in September 2024.
Tiziana Fabi/AFP/Getty Images
The pope meets with children at the Caritas Technical Secondary School in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, in September 2024.
The pope meets with children at the Caritas Technical Secondary School in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, in September 2024.
Vatican Media/Abaca Press/Sipa USA via AP
Pope Francis greets people from a car after <a href="index.php?page=&url=https%3A%2F%2Fedition.cnn.com%2F2024%2F09%2F09%2Fasia%2Fpope-francis-east-timor-intl-hnk%2Findex.html" target="_blank">leading a Holy Mass</a> at the Esplanade of Tasi Tolu in Dili, East Timor, on September 10, 2024.<br />
Pope Francis greets people from a car in Dili, East Timor, in September 2024. The pope received a rapturous welcome from the tiny Southeast Asian nation of East Timor, one of the world’s most Catholic countries, where almost half the population turned out for an open-air Mass. It was the penultimate stop of a marathon trip through Asia and the South Pacific.
Willy Kurniawan/Reuters
Pope Francis holds a cross during Mass at the King Baudouin Stadium in Brussels, Belgium, in September 2024.
Pope Francis holds a cross during Mass at the King Baudouin Stadium in Brussels, Belgium, in September 2024.
Alberto Pizzoli/AFP/Getty Images
The pope presides over a Christmas Eve Mass at the Vatican in December 2024.
The pope presides over a Christmas Eve Mass at the Vatican in December 2024.
Mario Tomassetti/Vatican Media/AP
The pope blesses a baby during his weekly general audience at the Vatican in January 2025.
The pope blesses a baby during his weekly general audience at the Vatican in January 2025.
Andreas Solaro/AFP/Getty Images
Pope Francis is joined by nuns at the Vatican in February 2025.
Pope Francis is joined by nuns at the Vatican in February 2025.
Filippo Monteforte/AFP/Getty Images
Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico meets with Pope Francis at the Vatican in February 2025. Later that day, <a href="index.php?page=&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cnn.com%2F2025%2F02%2F14%2Feurope%2Fpope-francis-hospital-bronchitis-intl%2Findex.html">the pope was admitted to a hospital in Rome</a>. It was later announced that he was <a href="index.php?page=&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cnn.com%2F2025%2F03%2F10%2Feurope%2Fpope-francis-health-imminent-danger-intl-latam%2Findex.html">battling pneumonia in both of his lungs</a>.
Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico meets with Pope Francis at the Vatican in February 2025. Later that day, the pope was admitted to a hospital in Rome. It was later announced that he was battling pneumonia in both of his lungs.
Vatican Media/Reuters
In March 2025, the Vatican released this photo of the pope inside the chapel of Rome's Gemelli Hospital. It was the first released photo of the pope after his hospitalization. He was seen wearing a stole, a vestment worn to concelebrate Mass. Concelebration means to be among the priests presiding over the Mass.
In March 2025, the Vatican released this photo of the pope inside the chapel of Rome's Gemelli Hospital. It was the first released photo of the pope after his hospitalization. He was seen wearing a stole, a vestment worn to concelebrate Mass. Concelebration means to be among the priests presiding over the Mass.
Vatican Press Office
Pope Francis makes a public appearance on the day <a href="index.php?page=&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cnn.com%2F2025%2F03%2F23%2Feurope%2Fpope-francis-hospital-appearance-intl%2Findex.html">he was discharged from the Gemelli Hospital in Rome</a> in March 2025. Though he looked frail and struggled to speak, he addressed the crowd outside the hospital, thanking them and acknowledging one woman in the crowd who was holding flowers. He also gave a blessing, though he appeared to have some difficulty raising his arms.
Pope Francis makes a public appearance on the day he was discharged from the Gemelli Hospital in Rome in March 2025. Though he looked frail and struggled to speak, he addressed the crowd outside the hospital, thanking them and acknowledging one woman in the crowd who was holding flowers. He also gave a blessing, though he appeared to have some difficulty raising his arms.
Remo Casilli/Reuters
The pope meets with US Vice President JD Vance at the Vatican on Easter Sunday in April 2025.
The pope meets with US Vice President JD Vance at the Vatican on Easter Sunday in April 2025.
Divisione Produzione Fotografica/Vatican Media/Reuters
Pope Francis attends Easter Sunday Mass and delivers the traditional "Urbi et Orbi" blessing from St. Peter's Square.
Pope Francis attends Easter Sunday Mass and delivers the traditional "Urbi et Orbi" blessing from St. Peter's Square.
Stefano Costantino/SOPA Images/LightRocket/Getty Images