Gallery: Jorge Mario Bergoglio's papacy in pictures

On Friday, Feb. 14, 2025, Pope Francis was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital with bronchitis that caused severe breathing difficulties. He was diagnosed pneumonia in both lungs, requiring intensive treatment and raising fears for his well-being. He was finally discharged on March 23.

On Sunday, still convalescing, he appeared on the balcony of the Vatican's St. Peter's Basilica and in a weak voice wished a "happy Easter" to the thousands of faithful gathered there for Easter.

The pope's passing will kick off a series of protocol acts, dictated by tradition and governed by very precise rules.

Francis and Donald Trump during the first term

The Republican and the Jesuit had, throughout their careers as world leaders, somewhat strained and bumpy, though respectful, relations.

Elizabeth II and the pope

Britain's Queen Elizabeth and her husband, Prince Philip, and Pope Francis during their meeting at the Vatican.

The first American and Argentine pope

Photo released by the press service of the San Lorenzo soccer club of Jorge Mario Bergoglio's membership card.

Barack Obama with Pope Francis

President Barack Obama speaks during Pope Francis' arrival ceremony at the White House on Sept. 23, 2015 in Washington, D.C..

Francis and Benedict XVI

Pope Francis during a meeting with Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, who abdicated from office.

Nancy Pelosi and Pope Francis

Pope Francis receives Nancy Pelosi, then speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, in a private audience at the Vatican .

Melania and Ivanka Trump visit Pope Francis

Pope Francis meets with U.S. President Donald Trump at the Private Library of the Apostolic Palace. Ivanka Trump and her husband Jared Kushner.

Funeral of Benedict XVI presided over by Pope Francis

Bergoglio bids farewell to Benedict XVI at his funeral.