A shocking and sad news broke today around the world—**Pope Francis has passed away at the age of 88**. According to reports from the Vatican, the Holy Father passed away hours after he personally **thanked the doctors and health staff** who cared for him during a long and difficult battle with illness.

Before passing away, **Pope Francis was seen sitting in his wheelchair while moving around the Vatican hospital**, personally shaking hands with doctors, nurses and medical staff. He could no longer hide the weakness of his body, but his smile conveyed deep gratitude.

A nurse shared with the media,
> “Before he left the ICU, he held my hand and said: *Thank you all. I may not see you again, but I pray that you continue to love the sick.*”

It will be recalled that in recent months, Pope Francis has been hospitalized several times due to **lung problems and a constantly weakening resistance**. Despite his old age and a series of illnesses, he continues to be respected and loved by millions of Catholics around the world. But it seems that this week, the moment many have feared has arrived.

As the news spread, **world leaders, religious figures and millions of followers immediately issued statements**. At Manila Cathedral, the bell rang nine times as a signal of mourning. In Rome, thousands of devotees went to St. Peter’s Basilica to pray.

Pope Francis, also known as Jorge Mario Bergoglio, is the **first Pope from South America** and **one of the most influential church leaders in history**. During his tenure, he has championed progressive views, an open approach to the LGBTQ+ community, and a crackdown on corruption and greed.

According to those who last spoke to the Pope before his death, **he left behind a message of peace**:

If this is my last moment, I want the world to know that I have chosen love over fear, forgiveness over anger, and unity over division.”*

Pope Francis thanked the doctors who took care of him when he was sick
Pope Francis meets with members of the medical team at the Vatican.

The 88-year-old Argentinian Pope thanked the medical teams for saving his life.

It is known that the Holy Pope spent more than five weeks in the Gemelli hospital in Rome due to the disease of this double pneumonia.

As many as 70 doctors and staff at the Gemelli hospital checked on the health of the Pope within 38 days.

This is the longest the Pope has stayed in the hospital during his 12 years in office.

Even though the Holy Pope has been released from the hospital, his doctor still advised him to rest first.

The Vatican is also unsure whether the Pope will attend Holy Week activities