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  • 30 things to know about late Pope Francis

    30 things to know about late Pope Francis

    Pope Francis died on Monday at 88. 

    His death comes just a day after he made a hopeful and cherished appearance at Saint Peter’s Square during Easter Sunday celebrations.

    “With profound sadness, I announce the passing of our Holy Father, Pope Francis,” Cardinal Kevin Farrell said in a statement released via the Vatican’s Telegram channel.

    “At 7:35 a.m. (0535 GMT) this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, peacefully departed to the house of the Father. His life was wholly devoted to serving God and the Church.”

    Here are thing to know about late Pope Francis

    1. Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina (1936)
    Pope Francis was born as Jorge Mario Bergoglio on December 17, 1936, in the Flores neighborhood of Buenos Aires. He was the eldest of five children in a deeply religious family of Italian immigrants.

    2. Son of an Italian Immigrant Accountant
    His father, Mario José Bergoglio, was an Italian immigrant who fled fascist Italy in 1929, and his mother, Regina María Sívori, was born in Argentina to Italian parents. Their cultural roots and strong Catholic values shaped Jorge’s early worldview.

    3. Raised in a working-class household
    Growing up in a modest, working-class family gave him a lifelong connection to the poor and underprivileged, which became a central theme of his ministry as pope.

    4. Attended Salesian School in Childhood
    As a boy, he was educated by the Salesians of Don Bosco, a religious order known for its emphasis on youth education and discipline, which influenced his later educational work.

    5. Graduated as a Chemical Technician
    He earned a diploma in chemistry from Escuela Técnica Industrial Nº 27 Hipólito Yrigoyen and worked in a food lab before entering the seminary. His scientific training made him a rare pope with a STEM background.

    6. Worked as a Bouncer and Janitor
    In his early adult life, he took on humble jobs—including working as a nightclub bouncer and janitor—experiences that grounded him and gave him a sense of the real struggles people face.

    7. Lost part of a lung at 21
    At age 21, he suffered a severe respiratory illness that required removal of part of one lung. This health scare had a deep spiritual impact and helped clarify his vocation.

    8. Felt called to priesthood after confession
    His path to priesthood began after a powerful experience during confession, which led him to abandon his former plans and pursue religious life.

    9. Joined the Jesuits in 1958
    He entered the Society of Jesus as a novice on March 11, 1958. The Jesuit order is known for its intellectualism, missionary work, and focus on education and social justice.

    10. Earned Degrees in Philosophy and Theology
    He obtained a licentiate in philosophy in 1960 and later studied theology in Buenos Aires. He taught literature and psychology at Jesuit high schools while in formation.

    11. Ordained a Priest in 1969
    Bergoglio was ordained a Catholic priest on December 13, 1969, marking the beginning of a pastoral career that would later revolutionise the global Church.

    12. Became Jesuit Provincial in Argentina
    In 1973, he became the head of the Jesuits in Argentina at just 36 years old, leading the order during a time of great political upheaval and violence in the country.

    13. Took Final Jesuit Vows in 1973
    He made his final, solemn vows as a Jesuit in April 1973, including the fourth vow of obedience to the pope, which all Jesuits make.

    14. Pilgrimage Interrupted by War
    He made a pilgrimage to the Holy Land in 1973, but his journey was cut short by the outbreak of the Yom Kippur War—a moment that underscored his vulnerability as a young leader.

    15. Rector of Jesuit Seminary
    He served as rector of the Jesuit seminary in San Miguel, Argentina, from 1980 to 1986, mentoring a generation of young priests and refining his own theological thought.

    16. Studied in Germany and Ireland
    To improve his English and academic reach, he studied briefly in Ireland and later at the Sankt Georgen Graduate School in Germany, where he explored the works of theologian Romano Guardini.

    17. Had strained relations with Jesuit Leadership
    After disagreements with Jesuit leadership over his views on liberation theology and pastoral approaches, he lived in relative isolation from the Jesuit community.

    18. Consecrated Auxiliary Bishop in 1992
    In 1992, Pope John Paul II appointed him auxiliary bishop of Buenos Aires, beginning his rise in the Catholic hierarchy.

    19. Appointed Archbishop of Buenos Aires in 1998
    He became archbishop following the death of his predecessor, leading the largest diocese in Argentina with a focus on social justice and outreach to the poor.

    Read Also: BREAKING: Pope Francis dies at 88

    20. Refused Lavish Trappings as Archbishop
    Even as archbishop, he refused to live in the luxurious bishop’s residence, choosing a small apartment and cooking his own meals—a lifestyle he would continue as pope.

    21. Created Cardinal in 2001
    Pope John Paul II elevated him to cardinal, giving him a global platform from which he became known for humility and theological depth.

    22. Seen as a moral voice during Argentine crisis
    He led the Church during Argentina’s economic collapse in 2001, offering spiritual support and standing up for the rights of the poor and disenfranchised.

    23. Elected Pope on March 13, 2013
    Following Pope Benedict XVI’s historic resignation, the conclave elected Bergoglio pope, choosing a man few outside Latin America expected to ascend to the papacy.

    24. Chose the Name “Francis” After Saint Francis of Assisi
    In a gesture symbolizing peace, humility, and care for the poor, he became the first pope to take the name Francis—setting the tone for a papacy rooted in service and compassion.

    25. Rejected Papal Luxury
    He declined to live in the traditional Apostolic Palace, opting instead for a modest guesthouse, and continued using a simple white cassock without ornate embellishments.

    26. Launched Global Reform of the Vatican
    Francis undertook a sweeping reform of the Vatican’s bureaucracy, finances, and internal operations, aiming for greater transparency and accountability.

    27. Issued Landmark Encyclical on Climate Change
    In 2015, he published Laudato Si’, a groundbreaking document calling climate change a moral issue and urging global action to protect “our common home.”

    28. Promoted a More Inclusive Church
    He emphasized mercy over judgment, welcomed discussions on family and sexuality, and encouraged pastoral outreach to divorced Catholics, LGBTQ people, and others often marginalized.

    29. Confronted the Church’s Role in Historical Injustices
    He apologized for the Church’s role in the abuse of Indigenous children in Canadian residential schools, calling it a “cultural genocide.”

    30. Passed Away on April 21, 2025 at 88
    After more than a decade of transformative leadership, Pope Francis died in Vatican City, just one day after making a heartfelt appearance on Easter Sunday, leaving behind a legacy of humility, compassion, and reform.

  • BREAKING: Pope Francis dies at 88

    BREAKING: Pope Francis dies at 88

    Pope Francis died on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025 at 88.

    He died at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta.

    Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, announced the death of Pope Francis from the Casa Santa Marta.

    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 house 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 fidelity, courage, and universal love, especially in favor of the poorest and most marginalized. With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite merciful love of the One and Triune God.”

    The Pope was admitted to the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital on Friday, February 14, 2025 after suffering from a bout of bronchitis for several days. Pope Francis’ clinical situation gradually worsened, and his doctors diagnosed bilateral pneumonia on Tuesday, February 18. After 38 days in hospital, the late Pope returned to his Vatican residence at the Casa Santa Marta to continue his recovery. In 1957, in his early 20s, Jorge Mario Bergoglio underwent surgery in his native Argentina to remove a portion of his lung that had been affected by a severe respiratory infection. As he aged, Pope Francis frequently suffered bouts of respiratory illnesses, even cancelling a planned visit to the United Arab Emirates in November 2023 due to influenza and lung inflammation.

    Read Also: Pope Francis seeks end to global conflicts

    In April 2024, the late Pope Francis approved an updated edition of the liturgical book for papal funeral rites, which will guide the funeral Mass which has yet to be announced. The second edition of the Ordo Exsequiarum Romani Pontificis introduces several new elements, including how the Pope’s mortal remains are to be handled after death. The ascertainment of death takes place in the chapel, rather than in the room where he died, and his body is immediately placed inside the coffin.

    According to Archbishop Diego Ravelli, Master of Apostolic Ceremonies, the late Pope Francis had requested that the funeral rites be simplified and focused on expressing the faith of the Church in the Risen Body of Christ. “The renewed rite,” said Archbishop Ravelli, “seeks to emphasise even more that the funeral of the Roman Pontiff is that of a pastor and disciple of Christ and not of a powerful person of this world.”

  • Pope Francis seeks end to global conflicts

    Pope Francis seeks end to global conflicts

    • CAN, Methodist Prelate, Kukah reflect on state of nation

    Pope Francis, recovering from an ailment that kept him in the hospital for two months, yesterday greeted Christians from his window at the Vatican in Rome to mark Easter.

    He also received United States Vice President JD Vance.

    A large crowd turned up for Easter celebration and to listen to the Pope’s “Urbi et Orbi” speech, which was read on his behalf by an Archbishop.

    The speech emphasized the need for peace across the troubled countries.

    In Nigeria Christians Marked the Easter Day with church services in an atmosphere of peace across the states.

    Leaders of various denominations also spoke on the need for peace in the country and a stop to the carnage in Plateau and Benue in the last four weeks.

    Archbishop Diego Ravelli delivered the Pope’s homily Urbi et Orbi, which translates as “to the city [Rome] and to the world,” is among the pope’s most significant messages and is delivered most notably on Christmas and Easter.

    It is traditionally solemn and addresses pressing global issues beyond religious matters, reflecting the global diplomatic influence of the pontiff.

    “There can be no peace without freedom of religion, freedom of thought, freedom of expression and respect for the views of others,” Francis wrote in his speech.

    “Nor is peace possible without true disarmament! The requirement that every people provide for its own defence must not turn into a race to rearmament.”

    Addressing each of the global conflicts, Francis first lambasted the “crowing climate of anti-semitism” throughout the world in response to the war in Gaza before calling for a ceasefire to end the war and facilitate the return of Israeli hostages held by Hamas.

    “Yet at the same time, I think of the people of Gaza, and its Christian community in particular, where the terrible conflict continues to cause death and destruction and to create a dramatic and deplorable humanitarian situation,” Francis wrote.

    On Palm Sunday, last week, a hospital in Gaza was struck by the Israeli military prompting widespread condemnation by Christian groups across the region.

    Read Also: Convalescing Pope Francis opens Holy Week

    Meanwhile, the collapse of Syria’s Assad regime and Israel’s dismantling of Hezbollah have upended power dynamics across the Levant, forcing Lebanon and Syria into a new phase of cautious diplomacy after decades of Syrian political and military influence over Lebanon.

    But the power vacuum has also led to renewed clashes near the border, as local militias, tribal groups and remnants of Assad loyalists vie for control. Pope Francis acknowledged the precarious moment facing Christian communities in both countries, urging Catholics to pray for their safety and inclusion in political life.

    The pope likewise called for a solution in Yemen, which has been plagued by a years-long and complex multi-fronted civil war between the Saudi- and U.S.-backed internationally recognized government and Iran-backed Houthi rebels, which in-turn support Hamas and Palestinian resistance to Israeli occupation.

    The war also involves UAE-supported southern separatists, tribal militias and extremist groups like al-Qaeda and ISIS, and has led to a catastrophic humanitarian crisis with widespread famine, disease and displacement. In his message, Francis urged “constructive dialogue” to “find solutions” and end the crisis.

    The pope also again praised Armenia and Azerbaijan for agreeing to the final text of a peace agreement, which was reached in mid-March, but has since faced potential hurdles that may hinder the deal from being signed.

    “During this time, let us not fail to assist the people of Myanmar, plagued by long years of armed conflict, who, with courage and patience, are dealing with the aftermath of the devastating earthquake in Sagaing,” Francis wrote.

    “We pray for the victims and their loved ones, and we heartily thank all the generous volunteers carrying out the relief operations. The announcement of a ceasefire by various actors in the country is a sign of hope for the whole of Myanmar.”

    The Catholic head met briefly with U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance to exchange Easter greetings, after they got into a long-distance tangle over the Trump administration’s migrant deportation plans.

    Francis received Vance in one of the reception rooms of the Vatican hotel where he lives. The 88-year-old pope offered the Catholic vice president three big chocolate Easter eggs for Vance’s three young children, who did not attend, as well as a Vatican tie and rosaries.

    “I know you have not been feeling great but it’s good to see you in better health,” Vance told the pope. “Thank you for seeing me.”

    Vance’s motorcade entered Vatican City through a side gate while Easter Mass was being celebrated in St. Peter’s Square.

    CAN seeks unity, dialogue

    The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) urged Nigerians to always promote unity, dialogue and reconciliation in the country.

    CAN President Archbishop Daniel Okoh, in his Easter message, advised Christians to remain strong in the face of challenges.

    Okoh urged Christians to use this Easter season as a time for deep reflection, earnest prayer, and spiritual renewal.

    The CAN president said: “On behalf of the national leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), I extend heartfelt greetings to all Christians in Nigeria and across the world. This is a moment of deep spiritual significance as we commemorate the resurrection of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.

    “Let us strengthen our bonds of fellowship, extend compassion to those in need, and strive to build a more just and caring society. This Easter, let us be intentional in acts of kindness and charity, reaching out to the marginalized and the suffering. “Let us also promote dialogue and reconciliation, working towards greater unity within our communities and across the nation. In the spirit of Easter, may we reach out to neighbors of other faiths, fostering mutual respect and peaceful coexistence. “

    May this season be one of harmony and goodwill for all Nigerians. May it inspire us to live out the values of love, peace, and forgiveness in our everyday lives.

    “As we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ, our Lord, may our hearts be filled with the message of victory that it brings to strengthen us in the face of adversity.”

    Kukah: Tinubu should end killings

    The Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Sokoto, Matthew Kukah urged President Tinubu to salvage Nigerians from killings and suffering.

    Kukah in his 2025 Easter message titled: ‘Mr President: Please, bring us down from this cross’, said the country is bleeding from savagery and brutality.

    He said: “Every day, innocent citizens are kidnapped and held under the most inhuman conditions.

    “A dark pall of death hangs languidly from north to south. It is impossible to find a home, a family, or a community that has not been caught in the cusp of this savagery.

    “Mr President, Nigeria is reaching a breaking point. The nation is gradually becoming a huge national morgue. With a greater sense of urgency, hasten to bring us down from this cross of evil”.

    Kakah said while Tinubu is not the cause, he should act to stop the menace, adding that “Nigerians have been dangling and bleeding on this cross of pain and mindless suffering for too long.

    He added: “A culture of cynicism and self-doubt over our capacity to secure peace for ourselves pervades our land. Indeed, a majority of our citizens feel that there is no hope in sight”.

    Kukah said Christians must still hold on to hope and look up to the cross as a source of strength and renewal.

    He stressed: “These times of great suffering should be times of hope, hope beyond human imagination — a hope which, as St. Paul assures us, does not disappoint.”

    Methodist Prelate: Benue needs peace

    The Prelate of the Methodist Church Nigeria, His Eminence Dr. Oliver Ali Aba, urged the Federal Government to take proactive and decisive action in tackling the lingering insecurity in Benue, Plateau, and other parts of the country.

    He said in his Easter  message at Trinity Methodist Church, Tinubu, Lagos State that the continuous killings in Plateau and Benue should stop.

    Rev. Aba, who is an indigene of Benue State, said: “Even I, who is standing before you, I am seriously affected. I come from Benue, and what is happening there is heartbreaking,”

    He described the killing of over 100 people in the Boko area and disturbances in Otobi-Akpa reflected a disturbing societal detachment from the value of human life.

    Rev. Aba said: “The problem I have with society is that nobody seems to be conscious of life anymore. When people are killed, we ask ‘how many?’ As if even one life lost doesn’t matter.”

    He said Nigeria’s population is a strategic national asset, particularly in terms of economic relevance on the global stage. Every life, he insisted, is valuable and must be protected

    While affirming the role of the nation’s security agencies, Rev. Aba challenged citizens to take responsibility for the safety of their communities.

    He added: “Security is not only the job of security agencies. You and I are also part of Nigeria’s security architecture. We must all be vigilant, report suspicious movements, and protect our neighborhoods.”

    While acknowledging that the socio-economic and security situations across the country remain troubling, Aba expressed confidence in divine intervention.

    He emphasized that with faith and vigilance, the nation can overcome its difficulties.

    “The society is not too comfortable,” he said. “But with God, all things are possible. Our situation can change for the better. If He has done it for the people of old, He will do it for us too.”

    APC prays  for Tinubu

    The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC)  prayed for divine strength and wisdom for President Tinubu in his determination to tackle and overcome the socio-economic challenges confronting our  nation.

    The National Publicity Secretary,  Felix Morka, in a statement in Abuja, enjoined Nigerians to embrace hope, patience, sacrifice, and resilience exhibited by Jesus Christ.

    The statement reads: “The All Progressives Congress (APC) rejoices with Nigerians, especially Christians, on the joyous occasion of Easter celebration.

    “Easter, the joyful end of the Lenten season of fasting and penitence, is core to the Christain faith as it commemorates  the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It symbolizes God’s eternal triumph over death and the power of light over darkness.

    “As we celebrate, we enjoin Nigerians to embrace hope, patience, sacrifice, and resilience, some of the priceless values and virtues immanent in Jesus’ death and resurrection.

    “We join Christians in prayer that the transformative blessings of Easter abide with all Nigerians, strengthen  President Bola Tinubu in his determination to tackle and overcome outstanding socio-economic challenges confronting our  nation.

    “May the worthy example of Christ inspire us to extend love and kindness to the needy and less-privileged as we remain steadfast in prayer for peace, security, unity and sustained progress of our beloved nation.

    “And may God continue to bless and protect our troops in the frontlines as they defend our freedoms and our homeland,” the party prayed.

    PDP preaches optimism, hope for national rebirth

    The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) urged Nigerians to renew their hope in the assurance of God’s unfailing love and intervention in the affairs of the country and humanity.

    The party, in a statement in Abuja by its National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, felicitated Nigerians on the occasion of the Easter.

    Ologunagba enjoined Nigerians to use the period of the Easter, which signifies the ultimate triumph of God’s saving grace over adverse circumstances, to reawaken their determination and hope for the much desired national rebirth as solution for the hardship, insecurity and other challenges facing the nation.

    He said: “The coming of Easter must redirect us as a nation to the imperatives of the virtues of forgiveness, forbearance and mutual respect.

    “Obedience to the rule of law and love for one another without regard to sectional, tribal, religious or political considerations, as this is the only way our nation can survive this challenging time.”

    Ologunagba urged leaders to use the occasion for deeper introspection and rededicate themselves to a life of selfless service.

  • Convalescing Pope Francis opens Holy Week

    Convalescing Pope Francis opens Holy Week

    A convalescing Pope Francis greeted the crowd in St. Peter’s Square on Palm  Sunday, wishing more than 20,000 faithful “Happy Holy Week,” in yet another reassuring public sign of his recovery from a life-threatening battle with double pneumonia.

    Many in the crowd reached out to touch Francis’ hand or garments as he was brought in a wheelchair down a ramp to the main altar, where he issued his brief greeting into a microphone.

    The 88-year-old pope was not wearing nasal tubes for supplemental oxygen, as he had during a similar appearance Sunday.

    On his way back to St. Peter’s Basilica from where he had emerged, Francis stopped to bless a rosary, and offered candy to a boy who greeted him.

    The 88-year-old Francis is entering his fourth week of convalescence during which doctors have advised him to avoid crowds.

    Read Also; Trump’s envoy conveys stronger U.S. interest at meeting with Tinubu

    While Francis is clearly eager to show he is feeling better, he has not spoken more than a few words in public as he recovers from a severe respiratory crisis that has labored his speech. The Vatican said it was waiting to advise on what role he may play in upcoming Holy Week events leading up to Easter  yesterday.

    It was his second time in St. Peter’s Square before a crowd since leaving the hospital, following last  Sunday’s unexpected appearance that thrilled the faithful. He also met privately with King Charles III and Queen Camilla last week, and made an impromptu tour of St. Peter’s Basilica, stopping to pray, and to thank a pair of restorers for their work on the basilica’s masterpieces.

    On Saturday, the eve of Holy Week, Francis went to the St. Mary Major Basilica in central Rome to pray privately before a favorite icon of the Virgin Mary, Salus Populi Romani. The basilica, which he typically visits before and after his foreign trips, was also his first stop after leaving the Gemelli hospital on March 23.

    In the traditional  yesterday blessing, the pontiff thanked the faithful for their prayers. “At this time of physical weakness, they help me to feel God’s closeness, compassion and tenderness even more.” For the ninth week, including his five-week hospitalisation starting Feb. 14, the blessing was delivered as a text.

  • Pope Francis discharged from hospital after 38 days

    Pope Francis discharged from hospital after 38 days

    Pope Francis has been discharged from the hospital after 38 days.

    The Pope, discharged yesterday, waved to the crowd from Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, while being wheeled out.

    In a post on X, the Vatican said the Pope would “greet and bless the faithful” in his first public appearance.

    The 88-year-old pontiff was diagnosed with pneumonia in both lungs in February.

    Following his hospitalisation, Gianfranco Ravasi, an Italian cardinal and former head of the Vatican’s department of cultural affairs, said the Pope could consider resigning if his health deteriorates.

    Read Also: Tinubu committed to delivering world-class infrastructure across Nigeria – Edun

    “I think he could do it because he is a person who is quite decisive in his choices,” Ravasi said.

    “He has always had the tendency to fight and react, and that is a legitimate choice too, because he has been able to handle trips in very difficult and challenging conditions, like the one in the Far East.

    “However, there is no question that if he found himself in a situation where he was compromised in his ability to have direct contact — as he loves to do — to be able to communicate in an immediate, incisive, and decisive way, then I believe he might consider resigning.”

    During his 12 years as head of the Roman Catholic Church, Pope Francis has been hospitalised several times, including in March 2023 when he spent three nights in hospital with bronchitis.

  • Pope Francis marks 12th anniversary in hospital

    Pope Francis marks 12th anniversary in hospital

    Pope Francis has marked the anniversary of his election as the head of the Catholic Church in hospital, a statement from the Vatican said yesterday morning.

    Yesterday marks 12 years since Francis was elected as the successor to the German pope Benedict XVI, born Joseph Ratzinger.

    The pope started his day after a quiet night in the hospital, the Vatican said.

    Following the unexpected resignation of Benedict XVI in 2013, then-Argentinian Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio was elected as the new pope on March 13, 2013.

    Read Also: STEM education key to Nigeria’s economic growth – NACETEM DG

    He is the fifth ballot of the conclave, of the secret gathering of cardinals that chooses the pontiff.

    The anniversary of the election is a public holiday in the Vatican, but there are no special events planned.

    The 88-year-old Francis has been undergoing treatment for the past month at the Gemelli Hospital in Rome.

    He is suffering from double pneumonia.

    Francis is on the path to slight improvement, though this is progressing slowly, the attending doctors have said.

  • Pope and death rumour

    Pope and death rumour

    Little more than a week into his admission to hospital for respiratory ailments, Pope Francis was lately rumoured dead. But the pontiff was not dead. The rumour mill was a product of obfuscation over his health by a habitually secretive Vatican and a restive quest for information by millions of Catholics and Vatican watchers who were concerned about the long absence of the holy father from public view.

    The pope was admitted to Agostino Gemelli University Hospital in Rome, the capital of Italy on 14th February after experiencing breathing difficulties. His condition later worsened, with his bronchitis developing into pneumonia in both lungs. Amidst heavy rumour traffic that he had died, the Vatican News reported last week that the 88-year-old pontiff was resting well and was even showing signs of “slight improvement” in his health condition. “No episodes of asthma-like respiratory distress occurred, and some laboratory tests have shown improvement. The monitoring of his mild kidney insufficiency has not raised any concerns. Oxygen therapy continues, although with slightly reduced flow and oxygen levels,” the health bulletin from the Vatican said.

    The real challenge with ascertaining the pontiff’s state of health was the sparseness  of information from the Holy See press office that left plenty of room for suspicion and speculation. Even Italian media were caught in the rumour frenzy as official update from the Vatican was spare. Given the Church’s past record of deliberate fudging and opaqueness when it comes to disclosure about a pope’s state of health, among other issues,  a thick cloud of skepticism overhung the true fate of Francis. That skepticism was earned. The day after Pope John Paul II underwent a lung surgery in 2005, the then Vatican spokesman told reporters he had enjoyed a breakfast of 10 cookies and a yogurt. Not long after, John Paul was confirmed dead.

    Doctors at Gemelli hospital where Francis was hospitalised didn’t help matters because they were tight-lipped. Meanwhile, access to the 10th floor of the hospital’s wing where popes have a private suite was severely restricted. “It’s easier to get into the Kremlin (in Russia) than the 10th floor (of Gemelli),” a medical official in the Italian capital was reported saying.

    Read Also: FG seeks partnership with DP World to upgrade Nigeria’s port infrastructure

    Keeping information tightly guarded is a Vatican tradition – whether it relates to the pope’s health, or abuse of minors by priests. Since Francis was hospitalised, the Vatican press office has issued two decidedly spare updates a day. Generally, the morning bulletin gave cursory news about how the pope slept and how he fared at breakfast. The evening bulletins were more medically informed in nature, though still light on details. Last Wednesday, the evening update said Francis’ blood tests showed “slight improvement, particularly in inflammatory indices.” It added that after breakfast, the pontiff read some newspapers, “then went about his work activities with his closest collaborators.” Francis was visited Wednesday afternoon by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who said she wanted to take get-well wishes to the pope on behalf of the government and the nation. “I am very happy to have found him alert and responsive,” she disclosed in a statement, adding: “We joked around, as always. He has not lost his proverbial sense of humor.”

    The Vatican reported that the pontiff was being treated for a ‘polymicrobial infection,’ which means he had a mix of microbes, like a virus or bacteria, in his lungs or other parts of his respiratory tract. Doctors had to modify his treatment more than once, but the Holy See did not specify what drugs he was taking beyond saying he was being administered ‘cortisone antibiotic therapy.’

    Defenders of the Vatican would argue that much has changed from the time of Francis’ predecessors, and that the Church has become more transparent. It is not the same, for instance, as when Pope John Paul II was evidently ailing before the Vatican spoke up about his health. And that may truly be so. Vatican statements provided reasons to the public upfront whenever Francis missed a meeting or an audience; it even announced the onset of his bronchitis on 6th February, about a week before he had to go on hospital admission. Still, the Church has been slow in coming clean with disclosures. In July 2021, it announced one Sunday afternoon that Francis was taken to Gemelli hospital for a “scheduled surgery” to have part of his colon removed. The suddenness of announcing a scheduled surgery took Catholic faithful aback and raised worse suspicions about Francis’ health at the time. The pope himself was more forthcoming about his health condition, though, speaking openly about his bad knee and sciatica – a chronic nerve condition that caused him back, hip and leg pain and forced him to use a wheelchair, cane or walker. In 2023, he was hospitalised at Gemelli for what the Vatican said was a respiratory infection, but which Francis later described as “acute and severe pneumonia in the lower lungs.” He told reporters on a return flight from Hungary that he was rushed to hospital.

    The present challenge is the latest health crisis for the pontiff, who had part of his lung removed as a young man and has become increasingly fragile in recent years. Reports cited insider sources saying Francis had been suffering from intense pain and had privately expressed suspicion he won’t make it this time. Following his hospital admission, doctors at Gemelli  reportedly distressed the pope by barring him from delivering his regular morning Angelus sermon, which he rarely missed even when hospitalised. According to insiders, he is now acting entirely on doctors’ orders. The pontiff initially resisted going to hospital but was reportedly told in no uncertain terms he risked dying if he stayed back at the Vatican.

    As his health deteriorated over recent months, Francis moved to consolidate key initiatives and appoint sympathetic figures to key positions in his progressive leaning papacy dogged by bitter ideological rifts. Since becoming pope in 2013, he has worked at making the Catholic church more inclusive, opening up key roles to women and sexually irregular people. While conservatives are furious over the reforms, liberals complain they haven’t been sufficient. Meanwhile, the pope’s efforts to end rampant child abuse by clerics have only produced mixed results.

    There are indications Francis has been looking beyond his papacy, with an eye on posthumous legacy.  On 6th February, about a week before he was hospitalised, he extended the term of Italian cardinal Giovanni Battista as dean of the College of Cardinals – an official who will oversee preparations for a potential conclave, the secretive gathering that selects a new pope. Insiders in Vatican politics said the move, which controversially sidestepped a scheduled vote on the next dean by top cardinals, was intended to ensure that the succession process plays out according to Francis’s wishes. Only cardinals under 80 years are eligible to vote at the conclave and Battista, a longtime Vatican operator, is too old to participate in the process. But he will be pivotal in private discussions that often take place before the conclave.

    Ahead of the 2013 conclave that elected him pope, Francis himself benefitted from the influence of a group of cardinals who were too old to participate in the proceedings but nevertheless moderated the outcome. “The run-up to the conclave is more important as that is where lobbying goes on,” an insider was reported saying. The Catholic church has produced five cardinals in Nigeria, the latest being Peter Okpaleke appointed by Francis in 2022. Others appointed by earlier popes are the late Dominic Ekandem, John Onaiyekan, Anthony Okogie and Francis Arinze.

    Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on 17th December, 1936, Francis is the 266th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church. He was elected pope on 13th March, 2013, following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI, who was designated “pope emeritus” and lived reclusively at the Vatican until his death in December 2022. Francis may not toe that line. But Vatican watchers say even if he survives his latest ordeal, he would likely shift focus from pursuing fresh reforms to locking in those already in place. “He may not die now, but of course, he eventually will,” a Vatican official was quoted saying. “We all die – and he’s an 88-year-old man with lung problems,” the official added.

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  • Pope Francis’ health crisis sparks prayers among Catholic faithful

    Pope Francis’ health crisis sparks prayers among Catholic faithful

    Thousands of people gathered yesterday in St. Peter’s Square to pray for an ailing Pope Francis, expressing sorrow for his suffering, hope for his recovery and gratitude for his efforts to steer the Catholic Church in new directions.

    The 88-year-old Francis has pneumonia in both lungs and remains in critical condition despite showing a slight improvement after 11 days in the hospital. The Vatican said early on Tuesday that he had “slept well, all night.”

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    As Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s No. 2, led prayers for 45 minutes on a chilly, rainy night Monday, the faithful fingered rosary beads while hoping for Francis’ recovery. The Vatican issued a dose of optimism earlier in the evening, delivering a more upbeat health bulletin than in recent days.

    Still, the mood was mostly grim in the monumental square, with many of the roughly 4,000 assembled understanding they may be in Rome for Francis’ final days. Crowds sat under umbrellas on folding chairs or stood by the vast colonnades as they reflected fondly on the pontiff’s legacy.

    “To see him suffer hurts,” said Robert Pietro, a Romanian seminarian who stood at the prayer holding a small, fragrant candle in tribute. “But we also pray in thanksgiving for what he has done for the Church.”

    The Rev. Roberto Allison, a priest from Guadalajara, Mexico, said members of his community had come together to show appreciation for “all that we have learned from him.”

  • Pope Francis spends 10th night in hospital

    Pope Francis spends 10th night in hospital

    Pope Francis, who has been hospitalised for several days, spent his 10th night in the hospital, according to a statement released by the Holy See Press Office on Monday morning.

    The statement reported that the Pope had a restful night, marking a positive update on his health.

    “The night went well; the Pope slept and is resting,” read the statement.

    The Pope is receiving treatment for double pneumonia at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital.

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    On Sunday evening, the Holy See Press Office said his condition remains critical, though he has not experienced any respiratory crises since Saturday morning.

    Pope Francis had received blood transfusions to bring up his hemoglobin levels.

    “The thrombocytopenia remains stable; however, some blood tests show early, mild renal insufficiency, which is currently under control,” said the Sunday press statement, adding that “high-flow oxygen therapy continues through nasal cannulas.”

    On Sunday, the Pope attended Mass in his apartment in Gemelli Hospital with the doctors and nurses who are overseeing his treatment.

  • Pope Francis is conscious, receiving supplemental oxygen, says Vatican

    Pope Francis is conscious, receiving supplemental oxygen, says Vatican

    Pope Francis was conscious but still receiving high flows of supplemental oxygen yesterday following a respiratory crisis and blood transfusions, as he remains in critical condition with a complex lung infection, the Vatican said.

    “The night passed quietly, the pope rested,” Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said in an early statement.

    Further clinical tests were being performed on the 88-year-old pope, who had part of one lung removed as a young man, and a more detailed medical update was expected later yesterday.

    On Saturday, Francis suffered a prolonged asthmatic respiratory crisis that required “high flows” of oxygen to help him breathe through a nasal tube. He also received blood transfusions after tests showed low counts of platelets, which are needed for clotting, the Vatican said.

    Doctors have said Francis’ condition is touch-and-go, given his age, fragility and pre-existing lung disease. His condition has revived speculation about what might happen if he becomes unconscious or otherwise incapacitated, and whether he might resign.

    Francis was supposed to have celebrated Mass yesterday morning in St. Peter’s Basilica and ordained deacons as part of the Vatican’s yearlong Holy Year commemoration.

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    The organiser of the Holy Year, Archbishop Rino Fisichella, celebrated the Mass in his place and offered a special prayer for Francis from the altar before delivering the homily the pope had prepared.

    “Even though he is in a hospital bed, we feel Pope Francis close to us, we feel him present among us,” Fisichella told the hundreds of white-robed deacons.

    A pre-written message that Francis had prepared for his yesterday noon prayer but did not deliver said he was “confidently continuing my hospitalisation at the Gemelli Hospital, carrying on with the necessary treatment; and rest is also part of the therapy!” The message noted the upcoming anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, “a painful and shameful occasion for the whole of humanity.”