Link to The first Latin American pontiff, known for his humility and progressive vision, dies on Easter Monday, leaving a transformative imprint on the Catholic Church.The first Latin American pontiff, known for his humility and progressive vision, dies on Easter Monday, leaving a transformative imprint on the Catholic Church.
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, died on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88 in his residence at the Vatican's Casa Santa Marta. The Vatican confirmed that the pontiff succumbed to complications from a stroke and heart failure, following a recent battle with double pneumonia.
His funeral is scheduled for Saturday, April 26, at 10 a.m. local time in St. Peter's Square, with Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re presiding over the ceremony. Public viewing of the pope's body will begin on Wednesday at St. Peter’s Basilica. In accordance with his wishes, Pope Francis will be buried at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, deviating from traditional papal burial practices.
Elected in 2013 as the 266th pope, Francis was the first Jesuit and the first pontiff from the Americas. His papacy was marked by a commitment to social justice, environmental stewardship, and a more inclusive Church. He addressed issues such as climate change, economic inequality, and the plight of migrants, often challenging established norms within the Vatican.
In October 2024, he released his fourth encyclical, "Dilexit Nos," focusing on the human and divine love of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The document called for a renewal of authentic devotion and emphasized the importance of compassion in a fragmented world.
Global leaders have expressed their condolences. King Charles III and Queen Camilla, who met with the pope earlier this month, described their final encounter as deeply meaningful. Former U.S. President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump have announced plans to attend the funeral, despite past tensions between the pope and the Trump administration.
As the Church enters a period of mourning, preparations are underway for the conclave to elect Pope Francis's successor. Potential candidates include Cardinal Matteo Zuppi of Bologna, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican Secretary of State, and Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle of the Philippines.
Pope Francis's death marks the end of a transformative era for the Catholic Church, characterized by a shift towards inclusivity, humility, and a renewed focus on the marginalized.
(Associated Medias) - All rights reserved(Associated Medias) - All rights reserved