Pope Francis: A Legacy Remembered

The world bids farewell to Pope Francis, the first Latin American leader of the Roman Catholic Church. According to Reuters, his death has been confirmed by an official statement from the Vatican.

He was 88 years old at the time of his passing and had recently battled a severe case of pneumonia.

«Dear brothers and sisters, with great sorrow, I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis», – quotes Reuters Cardinal Kevin Farrell.

«This morning at 7:35, Bishop of Rome Francis returned to the Father»,   - added the cardinal.

This marks the end of a frequently controversial papacy, characterized by divisions and tensions as Francis sought to reform one of the world's largest religious organizations, notes Reuters.

Earlier, Ukinform reported that 88-year-old Pope Francis was hospitalized at the Roman hospital «Gemelli» due to a severe respiratory infection on February 14.

Initially treated for bronchitis, he was later diagnosed with bilateral pneumonia.

He spent several weeks in the hospital. This deterioration in his health was the most serious in his 12 years of papacy.

After leaving the hospital on March 23, the head of the Holy See made only a few public appearances. He missed the solemn services on Good Friday and Holy Saturday.

On Sunday, April 20, the Pope had a brief private meeting with U.S. Vice President Jay D. Vance.

On Easter Sunday, the pontiff also appeared before the public to bless thousands gathered for Mass in St. Peter's Square.