Throughout his papacy, Francis took steps to appoint and integrate women into leadership roles in the Vatican.

One of the most long-lasting impacts of Pope Francis' pontificate may be his appointment of more women than ever before to top Vatican positions. From hospital as he was battling double pneumonia in February 2025,

Among Pope Francis' last words were "thank you" to his personal nurse, for encouraging him to greet crowds in St. Peter's Square one last time.