On Easter Monday, the world was met with the shocking news of Pope Francis’s death at the age of 88.

 

This announcement came just hours after he had blessed thousands of faithful in St. Peter’s Square during Easter Sunday celebrations.

 

The 266th leader of the Catholic Church returned to the house of the Father, as Cardinal Farrell poignantly stated.

 

In the days leading up to his passing, Pope Francis’s health had been a concern.

 

He had been hospitalized for pneumonia in February, a condition exacerbated by a partial lung removal he underwent in his youth.

 

Despite his frail appearance, few anticipated that his death would come so soon after his public appearance.

 

A Lasting Message of Peace

 

During his final Easter message, delivered through an aide, the Pope called for peace in conflict zones like Gaza and Ukraine.

 

His words resonated deeply, condemning the thirst for violence seen in global affairs.

 

These would be his last public words, leaving a poignant reminder of his life’s work advocating for the marginalized.

 

The Shockwave of His Passing

 

As news of his death spread, the reaction was immediate and emotional.

 

BBC correspondent David Giglione reported seeing people rush to St. Peter’s Square, some openly weeping in the streets of Rome.

 

The impact of his passing was felt not just in the Vatican but around the world, highlighting the Pope’s profound influence.

 

 

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires to Italian immigrants, had an unconventional path to the papacy.

 

Before joining the Jesuits, he worked as a nightclub bouncer and chemical technician, experiences that shaped his understanding of the

world.

 

In 2013, he became the first non-European pope in nearly 1,300 years, a groundbreaking moment for the Catholic Church.

 

Throughout his 11-year papacy, Francis transformed what it meant to be a pope.

 

He famously rejected the opulent papal apartments, opting instead to live in the Vatican guest house.

 

His humility was evident in his actions, from washing the feet of prisoners to advocating for the poor and the environment.

 

Traditionally, the death of a pope triggers a series of elaborate ceremonies, but Francis chose simplicity even in death.

 

When a pope dies, the camerlengo verifies the death by calling the pope’s name three times.

 

Upon receiving no response, the camerlengo announces the pope is truly dead, and the fisherman’s ring is destroyed, symbolizing the end of

his authority.

 

However, Francis opted for a less elaborate funeral, selecting a simple wooden coffin lined with zinc.

 

Unlike his predecessors, who were buried in the Vatican grotto, Pope Francis will be laid to rest in the Basilica of St. Mary Major.

 

This choice reflects his deep devotion to Mary and his desire to remain connected to the people of Rome.

 

The basilica, located in the heart of the city, is accessible to all, allowing countless individuals to pay their respects.

 

Following his death, tributes poured in from leaders around the globe, transcending faith and political lines.

 

 

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen remarked on how Francis inspired millions with his humility and love for the less

fortunate.

 

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed her privilege in knowing him, emphasizing his call for courage to change direction.

 

In the coming days, the College of Cardinals will gather to elect Francis’s successor.

 

This conclave, a process steeped in tradition, will see the cardinals sequestered until they reach a decision.

 

The new pontiff will face the daunting task of following in the footsteps of a leader who redefined the papacy and championed peace.

 

Pope Francis’s death during this Easter season adds poignancy to an already solemn moment.

 

His life was a testament to compassion, urging us to build bridges rather than walls.

 

As the bells of St. Peter’s toll in mourning, the faithful gather to honor a man who changed the Catholic Church and touched countless lives.

 

As we reflect on Pope Francis’s life, we are reminded of the essence of faith and service.

 

His final journey maintains the simplicity and humility that defined his papacy.

 

In the coming days, millions will watch as cardinals convene for the conclave to choose his successor.

 

Who will take on this monumental role, and how will they continue to evolve the Church in a rapidly changing world?

 

Stay tuned for exclusive coverage of the papal funeral and the historic conclave that follows.

 

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