On Wednesday, Pope Francis is set to undergo abdominal surgery to treat his recurring pain, according to a Vatican spokesperson. This follows his hospitalization for a pulmonary infection two months ago.
The 86-year-old pontiff will be admitted to Rome's Gemelli hospital where he will be placed under anesthesia for the surgical procedure. Although the expected duration of his hospital stay has not been confirmed, he is expected to remain there for a few days.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Pope Francis has been the leader of the Catholic Church since the abdication of his predecessor in 2013. As the first Pope from the Americas and the first non-European to hold the position since the 8th century, he is a unique and groundbreaking figure in the history of the Church. Moreover, he is the first Jesuit to become Pope, adding to his already significant legacy.
Despite his age and recent health challenges, Pope Francis remains an influential and inspiring figure both inside and outside the Vatican. The Catholic community and the world at large eagerly await a successful recovery so that he may continue his important work.