Pope Francis defied doctors to serve until the very end, aide says
Pope Francis, celebrated by many for his messages of inclusion and compassion, died on Monday at the age of 88, just one day after making a surprise appearance in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican.
Pope Francis is known by many as a symbol of unity and hope, and he showed grace and kindness to people around the world. Here are some of the most heartwarming and memorable moments from his 12-year papacy.
Allowing children to walk up to the altar during Mass
Pope Francis regularly held Mass for papal audiences at the Vatican. On more than one occasion, children have walked up to the altar during Mass — and many times, the pope did not ask them to leave.
In 2019, a young girl wearing a shirt that read