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الوسم: Pope Francis
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Sistine Chapel Awaits: Cardinals Gear Up to Choose New Pope
Vatican City Update: Sistine Chapel Prepares for Papal Election
VATICAN CITY — The iconic Sistine Chapel, renowned for Michelangelo’s masterpieces, is currently undergoing significant renovations. Among the updates are the installation of a stove designed for the incineration of ballots and a chimney that will signal to the world when the Catholic Church has elected a new pope.
A recent video from the Vatican press office showcases ongoing work within the 13th-century chapel, as builders erect scaffolding to create a raised wooden floor. This new space will accommodate large tables for the 133 cardinal electors who will cast their votes during the conclave.
In a particular corner of the chapel, workers are installing the stove where the ballots will be burned. The video, released on Friday, also depicts firefighters climbing onto the chapel’s roof to secure the chimney flue.
When the voting concludes, the smoke signaling the election results will be closely observed in St. Peter’s Square. Black smoke indicates that no candidate has received the required two-thirds majority, while white smoke declares the election of a new pontiff.
Silvio Screpanti, the deputy director of infrastructure for Vatican City, reported that five electricians and five technicians will be onsite for the entirety of the conclave. One technician will remain in a small room adjacent to the Sistine Chapel, equipped with a remote control to operate the stove electronically.
In preparation for the electoral proceedings, technicians will "black out all the windows" in the areas designated for the conclave and disable various technological devices and sensors that have been installed in recent years.
On the day before the conclave, approximately 80 lead seals will be placed at all entrance points to the perimeter. Additionally, around 200 rooms at the Santa Marta guest house and a neighboring building are being cleaned and repainted, with some windows blocked for privacy.
Furniture in the accommodations will be kept minimal, including only a bed, bedside table, and wardrobe, according to Screpanti. Some technicians are seasoned veterans from previous conclaves, while others are experiencing it for the first time. All personnel must take an oath of secrecy and will reside within the Vatican, without any contact with their families during this time.
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Over 30,000 Gather at Rome Church to Honor Pope Francis’ Tomb
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### ROME: Crowds Gather to Pay Respects at Pope Francis’ Tomb
On Sunday, tens of thousands flooded into the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major in Rome to view the tomb of the late Pope Francis, marking a significant departure from tradition as he chose to be buried outside the Vatican.
For over a century, no pope had been interred away from the Vatican, but Francis opted for burial in Santa Maria Maggiore, situated in one of the most diverse neighborhoods of the Italian capital. His casket was moved there on Saturday following a funeral Mass held in St. Peter’s Square, where around 150,000 mourners lined the streets to bid farewell.
The simple marble tomb is located in a side aisle of the basilica and bears only his name, “Franciscus,” inscribed in Latin. Above the niche hangs a replica of the humble cross that he wore throughout his life.
Polish pilgrim Maria Brzezinska expressed her thoughts after visiting the site: “This feels like the perfect resting place for the Pope. He was a man of simplicity, and his final resting place reflects that.”
People began lining up long before the basilica opened its doors at 7:00 AM (0500 GMT), and once the doors were opened, the church quickly filled with visitors. Authorities encouraged individuals to exit after paying their respects, as many more were waiting outside. Within six hours, approximately 30,000 had visited the site, according to Vatican estimates.
As tourists exited around lunchtime, many shared that they had waited over two hours to enter and only had a brief moment inside the basilica.
In the afternoon, hundreds of cardinals gathered in the church for prayers. Founded in 432, Santa Maria Maggiore is the only basilica in Rome that retains its early Christian structure, despite numerous later modifications.
Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21 at the age of 88, held a deep appreciation for this basilica due to his devotion to Mary, the Mother of God. He consistently prayed there before and after each international trip.
Near the tomb rests a revered Byzantine icon of Mary within the Pauline Chapel. A vase filled with golden roses, donated by Francis in 2023, is placed among candlesticks below the icon. His last visit to the chapel occurred on April 12, when he arrived with a bouquet of white roses.
A single white rose was laid atop his tomb as a tribute.
Sharing his sentiments, Rome resident Carmelo Lamurra remarked, “There’s so much emotion. He was a figure who connected with everyone, and we honor him for all he has done, each in our unique way. Thank you.”
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The Role of a Pope: Duties and Responsibilities Explained
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Archbishop Gabriele Caccia, the permanent representative of the Holy See to the United Nations, conducts a Mass for the late Pope Francis at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City on April 26, 2025. — Reuters VATICAN CITY: With the passing of Pope Francis, the world’s cardinals will convene in Rome to select his successor. But what does the role of a pope truly entail?
Here’s a summary of the primary duties and responsibilities of the pope, who serves as the leader of the global Catholic Church.
Spiritual Leader
The term “pope” originates from the Greek word “pappas,” translating to “father” or “patriarch,” which is why he is affectionately known as the Holy Father by believers.
He is recognized as the successor of St. Peter, who, as per Christian belief, was entrusted by Jesus Christ with leading the Church.
This makes the pope a spiritual beacon for approximately 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide.
His responsibilities include preserving, interpreting, and imparting the Christian faith while fostering the unity of the Catholic Church.
Head of State
Additionally, the pope acts as the head of state of Vatican City, the smallest independent state in the world, measuring just 44 hectares and situated within Rome.
He wields complete authority in various domains, from employment decisions to managing the Vatican’s extensive properties, though he often delegates responsibilities to senior clergy members.
The pope maintains his own diplomatic corps and regularly meets with world leaders at the Vatican during private audiences.
Moral Authority
The pope’s influence extends beyond Catholic communities, positioning him as a leading moral voice internationally.
Many leaders from different faiths seek meetings at the Vatican, and his statements often carry more weight than those of numerous elected officials.
The Vatican holds non-member observer status at the United Nations and frequently mediates in conflict zones.
Teaching and Doctrine
Pope Francis has provided guidance on various aspects of life through his homilies and written works, addressing everything from everyday behaviors—such as discouraging gossip—to significant doctrinal matters.
He has released several encyclicals, which are open letters to the global Church, covering topics like social friendship and climate change.
Other important documents include apostolic exhortations—teaching statements—and motu proprio, which signify legal amendments initiated by the pope.
During his papacy, Francis supported the blessing of same-sex couples, limited the traditional Latin Mass, and implemented measures to prevent child abuse within the clergy.
Bishop of Rome
As the Bishop of Rome, the pope oversees the administration of his diocese, although this responsibility is generally delegated to a Vicar General due to time constraints.
However, the pope actively participates in local events, frequently visiting various churches in Rome for celebrations or significant observances.
Global Engagement
The pope travels extensively to connect with Catholic communities around the globe.
John Paul II holds the record for the most apostolic trips, completing 104 visits over 26 years, while Francis has made 47 trips, often focusing on marginalized groups and pivotal issues such as migration and inter-faith dialogue.
Appointments
The pope is instrumental in appointing bishops, responsible for the approximately 3,000 clergy across Catholic dioceses worldwide, as well as cardinals.
Cardinals, sometimes referred to as the “princes of the Church,” are the highest-ranking clergy, and those under 80 years old are eligible to vote in the papal election.
The pope also has the authority to declare individuals as “blessed” or “saint,” following investigations into their miracles and virtues.
He can convene Synods—global meetings that Francis opened to laypeople for the first time—to discuss specific topics.
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Trump and Zelenskiy Hold “Very Productive” Meeting in Rome, Official Says
U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky meet at the funeral of Pope Francis in the Vatican on April 26, 2025. - Meeting occurred prior to Pope Francis’ funeral.
- This was their first meeting since a heated argument in the Oval Office.
- Ceasefire discussions in the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine are at a pivotal juncture.
VATICAN CITY: U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky engaged in a “very productive” meeting on Saturday in Rome while attending the funeral of Pope Francis, according to a White House representative.
A spokesperson for Zelensky’s office reported that the two leaders met inside St. Peter’s Basilica for approximately 15 minutes and arranged to reconvene later that day, with their teams coordinating the details.
This meeting was the first since their tense exchange in the Oval Office earlier in February and comes during a crucial period for negotiations aimed at halting the conflict between Ukraine and Russia.
“President Trump and President Zelensky met privately today and had a very fruitful conversation. Further details will be shared soon,” stated Steven Cheung, the White House communications director.
Zelensky’s chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, called the discussion “constructive” in a social media update.
Photos from the meeting showed the two leaders seated across from one another in an expansive marble hall, leaning in close without any aides present.
Another image captured the leaders in a close huddle alongside British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron, with Macron’s hand placed on Zelensky’s shoulder.
Trump, who has been advocating for both parties to agree on a ceasefire, mentioned on Friday that his envoy had engaged in productive discussions with Russian officials, urging for a high-level meeting between Kyiv and Moscow to finalize an agreement.
He had previously warned that his administration would halt its peace efforts if an agreement was not reached promptly.
Territorial Disputes
Recent diplomatic efforts unveiled stark differences between the Trump administration’s peace talk stance and that of Ukraine and its European allies, according to documentation obtained by Reuters.
Washington has proposed recognizing Crimea, the Ukrainian peninsula annexed by Russia in 2014, as Russian territory—something that Kyiv and its European allies deem unacceptable.
There are also disagreements over the timeline for lifting sanctions on Russia in the event of a peace agreement, what security assurances would be offered to Ukraine, and how financial compensation would be structured.
Trump and Zelensky have had a tumultuous relationship. During their Oval Office encounter, Trump accused Zelensky of “gambling with World War Three.”
Since that meeting, Kyiv has worked to mend ties, though tensions persist. Zelensky has indicated that Trump is ensnared in a “disinformation bubble” favoring Moscow, while Trump has criticized Zelensky for hesitating on a peace deal and making “inflammatory” remarks.
However, both leaders find themselves in need of each other. Trump requires Zelensky’s cooperation to achieve his stated goal of securing a swift peace with Russia, while Kyiv needs Trump to apply pressure on Moscow to ease some of the more burdensome terms attached to a truce.
During the February Oval Office meeting, a reporter from a conservative U.S. news outlet remarked that Zelensky disrespected the occasion by not wearing a suit.
Since the onset of Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, Zelensky has opted for military-style clothing rather than formal suits as a show of solidarity with his country’s defenders.
In Rome on Saturday, Zelensky chose again to forgo a suit, instead sporting a dark button-up shirt with a military-style jacket.
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The Last Resting Spot of Pope Francis
The interior of Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica, the final resting place of the late Pope, a day before his funeral in Rome on April 25, 2025. —AFP ROME: The Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica, selected by Pope Francis as his final resting spot, is a fifth-century church located in the heart of Rome. It already houses the tombs of seven previous popes.
Pope Francis, who passed away on Monday at the age of 88, is the first pope in over a century not to be buried in St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican.
The pope showed deep devotion to the Virgin Mary, often praying at Santa Maria Maggiore before embarking on international trips and upon returning to Rome.
His last prayer at the basilica took place on April 12, as he honored the Virgin Mary ahead of Holy Week, which leads up to Easter.
In 2023, Francis expressed his wish to be laid to rest in the Basilica of Saint Mary Major. The last pope interred there was Clement IX in 1669.
Additionally, the last pontiff to be buried outside the Vatican was Leo XIII in 1903, whose resting place is at the Church of Saint John Lateran, the cathedral for the bishop of Rome.
Santa Maria Maggiore is one of four papal basilicas in Rome and holds the remains of other notable figures, including architect and sculptor Gian Lorenzo Bernini, who designed St. Peter’s Square and its surrounding colonnades.
The basilica’s interior has largely maintained its ancient character, featuring 40 Ionic columns lining the central nave and showcasing beautiful mosaics.
One legend associated with the basilica traces back to its origins, telling of a wealthy Roman couple without children who wished to dedicate their wealth to the Virgin Mary. She is said to have appeared in a dream, instructing them to construct a church in her honor, where a miracle would occur: snow fell on the hill in August 352, marking the future site of the basilica.
Another story involves Pope Liberius, who reportedly dreamed of the summer snowfall.
According to the Vatican, however, there are no remnants left of the original church. Construction of the current structure started around 432 under Pope Sixtus III.
This basilica houses some of the Church’s most significant relics, including an icon of the Virgin Mary with the infant Jesus, attributed to Saint Luke. It also contains fragments of wood believed to be from Jesus’s crib, with recent studies suggesting they date back to the time of his birth.
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Pope Francis’s Funeral: Timeline of Events and Details
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Security personnel prepare for the public’s arrival at St. Peter’s Square before the funeral of the late Pope Francis in the Vatican on April 26, 2025. — AFP The funeral for Pope Francis is set to be held in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican this Saturday, with his final resting place at Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica in Rome.
Here’s the official schedule for the ceremonies honoring the late pontiff, who passed away on Monday at the age of 88.
5:30 AM — St. Peter’s Square opens to the public.
9:30 AM — U.S. President Donald Trump, along with his wife Melania, arrives at St. Peter’s Square.
10:00 AM — The funeral mass commences, led by Giovanni Battista Re, the dean of the College of Cardinals.
The sealed wooden and zinc coffin of Pope Francis will be placed before a temporary raised altar in front of the basilica.
On one side, the cardinal members in red robes will sit, while official delegations from around the globe will be seated alphabetically on the other side.
The ceremony is expected to last around 90 minutes, attended by 224 cardinals and 750 priests and bishops.
The service will include the following elements:
- Reading of liturgical texts
- A homily delivered by Cardinal Re
- A universal prayer in multiple languages
- Consecration of the bread and wine
- Exchange of peace among participants
- The Eucharist
- A moment of silence
- Sprinkling of holy water on the coffin
Once the mass concludes, the coffin will be taken inside St. Peter’s Basilica.
Approximately 11:30 AM — The coffin departs for Santa Maria Maggiore, the basilica where Pope Francis will be laid to rest.
While mourners will not be able to follow the funeral procession, the public can view it from behind metal barriers along the route.
The hearse will travel about four kilometers (approximately 2.5 miles) slowly through the streets of Rome.
Key points along the route include:
- Porta del Perugino (a western exit from Vatican City)
- Crossing the River Tiber
- Corso Vittorio Emanuele
- Piazza Venezia
- Via dei Fori Imperiali
- Colosseum
- Via Labicana
- Via Merulana
Around 1:00 PM — The coffin will arrive at Santa Maria Maggiore, where it will be greeted by a group of the “poor and needy.”
The burial, officiated by Cardinal Kevin Farrell—acting camerlengo managing the Vatican’s daily operations until a new pope is chosen—will be a private affair.
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World Leaders and Royals Gather to Honor Pope Francis at His Funeral
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Brazil’s President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and his wife Rosangela “Janja” da Silva pay their respects to Pope Francis inside St. Peter’s Basilica as he lies in state, at the Vatican, on April 25, 2025. —Reuters - Francis transformed the Church, faced resistance from traditionalists.
- His funeral departs from tradition, with burial outside the Vatican.
- World leaders, including those from the USA, France, and Argentina, will attend.
VATICAN CITY: Dignitaries, world leaders, and countless faithful will gather on Saturday for a funeral Mass in St. Peter’s Square to honor Pope Francis’s impactful yet often controversial papacy.
Among the attendees from over 150 countries is former U.S. President Donald Trump, who had significant disagreements with Francis, particularly regarding immigration policies.
The Argentine pontiff passed away on Monday at the age of 88 after suffering a stroke, marking the beginning of a carefully orchestrated transition for the 1.4 billion members of the Roman Catholic Church, filled with solemn rituals and mourning.
Over the past three days, approximately 250,000 individuals have paid their respects, viewing his body which was displayed in an ornate casket in the grand St. Peter’s Basilica.
On Saturday, his casket will be brought out through the main entrance for the outdoor funeral, commencing at 10 a.m. local time (0800 GMT). Rows of international dignitaries will be situated to one side of the stone colonnade, facing hundreds of red-hatted cardinals on the opposite side.
In addition to Trump, leaders from Argentina, France, Gabon, Germany, Italy, the Philippines, Poland, and Ukraine are expected to attend, along with the prime ministers of the UK and New Zealand, and various European royals.
The Vatican anticipates that around 250,000 mourners will gather in the expansive, cobbled plaza to participate in the ceremony, which will be led by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, a 91-year-old Italian prelate.
Francis, the first non-European pope in nearly 1,300 years, endeavored to reform the Catholic Church during his 12-year papacy, advocating for the poor and marginalized, and challenging wealthy nations to assist migrants and combat climate change.
The formal summary of his papacy, written in Latin and placed beside his body, expressed: “Francis left a magnificent legacy of humanity, holiness, and universal care.”
While he faced resistance from traditionalists aiming to maintain the Church’s secrecy, his calls for peace, unity, and the curtailing of rampant capitalism often went unanswered.
Breaking with Tradition
During his tenure, the pope frequently distanced himself from the grandeur usually associated with the papacy and will reflect this desire for simplicity in his funeral. He revised the elaborate, lengthy rites traditionally employed.
Unlike Pope John Paul II’s three-hour funeral in 2005, Saturday’s service is expected to last only 90 minutes.
Additionally, Pope Francis chose to forgo the historic practice of being buried in three interlocking coffins made of cypress, lead, and oak. Instead, he will be interred in a singular, zinc-lined wooden coffin, sealed overnight.
In an unprecedented move, he will be the first pope in over a century to be buried outside of the Vatican, opting for Rome’s Basilica of St. Mary Major, situated about 2.5 miles from St. Peter’s, as his final resting place.
The grave will be marked simply with “Franciscus,” his name in Latin. A replica of the iron cross he wore is displayed above the marble slab.
The funeral procession will traverse the city, allowing locals to say their goodbyes.
In preparation, Italy has shut down airspace over the city and bolstered security forces, including deploying anti-aircraft missiles and patrol boats, marking one of the largest security operations since John Paul II’s funeral.
Once Francis is laid to rest, attention will shift to his potential successor.
The secretive conclave to elect a new pope is not expected to commence before May 6 and may be delayed further, allowing cardinals time for discussions to evaluate one another and the Church, which is currently grappling with financial challenges and ideological rifts.
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Vatican Prepares for Massive Crowds for Pope Francis’ Funeral
Mourners line up to pay their respects as Pope Francis lies in state at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, Italy, April 25, 2025. — Reuters The Vatican is making final arrangements for Pope Francis’ funeral on Friday, as the last of the large crowds of mourners file through St. Peter’s Basilica to pay their respects to his open coffin.
Many of the 50 heads of state and 10 monarchs attending the funeral ceremony in St. Peter’s Square on Saturday—including President Donald Trump of the United States and President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine—are expected to arrive in Rome on Friday.
In anticipation of the funeral, Italian and Vatican authorities have established strict security around St. Peter’s, deploying snipers on rooftops, and placing drones off-limits, with fighter jets on standby.
Police indicated that additional checkpoints will commence operation on Friday evening.
Countless individuals have already lined up for hours to pay tribute to Francis, whose coffin will be sealed at 8:00 PM during a ceremony attended by senior cardinals.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the camerlengo overseeing the day-to-day affairs of the Vatican until a new pope is chosen, will conduct the “Rite of the Sealing of the Coffin.”
The first Latin American pope in Catholic history passed away on Monday at the age of 88, less than a month after battling severe pneumonia that required hospitalization.
Veronique Montes-Coulomb, a tourist from Toulouse, France, who attended the public viewing at St. Peter’s Basilica on Thursday, recalled seeing the pope during the Easter Sunday mass, which was his final public appearance. “He seemed relatively healthy; we were shocked to learn of his passing on Monday morning,” she shared with AFP.
The Argentine pope, who had faced ongoing health issues, went against doctor’s advice to attend the Easter celebration—an event of great significance in the Catholic calendar.
Messages of condolence from across the globe have poured in for Francis, an energetic reformer who dedicated his 12-year leadership to advocating for society’s marginalized and less fortunate.
In his last address, he criticized those who incite “contempt for the vulnerable, the marginalized, and migrants.”
At least 130 foreign delegations are anticipated to attend his funeral, with a no-fly zone enforced during the ceremony.
A “Brief but Intense” Farewell
Pope Francis’ coffin has been placed before the altar in St. Peter’s for three days of lying in state, with the pope dressed in his papal attire—a red chasuble, a white mitre, and black shoes.
“It was a brief yet powerful moment standing beside him,” expressed Massimo Palo, 63, an Italian visitor to St. Peter’s Basilica, as he reflected on his experience. “He was a pope among his people, and I hope future papacies will embrace his spirit,” he added.
Italy’s civil protection agency predicts “several hundred thousand” people will converge on Rome for this already busy weekend, coinciding with a public holiday on Friday.
After the funeral, the pope’s coffin will make its journey at a slow pace to be interred in his cherished church, the Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome.
In a fitting tribute, a group of “poor and needy” individuals will be present to greet the coffin, according to the Vatican.
He will be laid to rest underground, his simple gravestone marked with one word: Franciscus.
Visitors will be allowed to pay their respects at the tomb starting Sunday morning.
Following the burial, attention will shift to the process of selecting Francis’ successor.
Cardinals from around the globe have been returning to Rome for both the funeral and the conclave to elect a new pope.
Without a sitting pope, the cardinals have been convening daily to discuss the next steps, with another meeting scheduled for Friday at 9:00 AM.
While the date for the conclave has not been established, it must begin no sooner than 15 days and no later than 20 days following a pope’s death.
Only cardinals under the age of 80 — numbering around 135 currently — are permitted to participate in the voting process.
According to British bookmaker William Hill, Italian Cardinal Pietro Parolin, who served as number two to Francis, is the frontrunner, followed by Filipino Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle and Ghana’s Cardinal Peter Turkson, with Matteo Zuppi, the Archbishop of Bologna, also in contention.
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Who Will Attend Pope Francis’s Funeral?
Pope Francis during an exclusive interview with Reuters at the Vatican on July 2, 2022. — Reuters PARIS: The Vatican announced on Thursday that a minimum of 130 foreign delegations have confirmed their presence for Pope Francis’s funeral, which includes 50 heads of state and 10 reigning monarchs.
Below is a list of distinguished guests whose offices have verified their attendance in Rome this Saturday.
Americas
ARGENTINA: President Javier Milei.
BRAZIL: President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and his wife Janja.
HONDURAS: President Xiomara Castro.
UNITED NATIONS: UN Secretary-General António Guterres.
UNITED STATES: Former President Donald Trump and his wife Melania.
Europe
AUSTRIA: Chancellor Christian Stocker.
BELGIUM: King Philippe and Queen Mathilde, along with Prime Minister Bart De Wever.
BULGARIA: Prime Minister Rossen Jeliazkov.
CROATIA: President Zoran Milanović and Prime Minister Andrej Plenković.
CZECH REPUBLIC: Prime Minister Petr Fiala.
DENMARK: Queen Mary.
ESTONIA: President Alar Karis.
EUROPEAN UNION: EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa.
FINLAND: President Alexander Stubb.
FRANCE: President Emmanuel Macron.
GERMANY: President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and former Chancellor Olaf Scholz (incoming Chancellor Friedrich Merz will not be attending).
GREECE: Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis.
HUNGARY: President Tamás Sulyok and Prime Minister Viktor Orbán.
IRELAND: President Michael Higgins and his wife Sabina, plus Taoiseach (Prime Minister) Micheál Martin.
KOSOVO: President Vjosa Osmani.
LATVIA: President Edgars Rinkēvičs.
LITHUANIA: President Gitanas Nausėda.
MOLDOVA: President Maia Sandu.
MONACO: Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene.
THE NETHERLANDS: Prime Minister Dick Schoof and Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp.
NORTH MACEDONIA: President Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova.
NORWAY: Crown Prince Haakon and Crown Princess Mette-Marit, along with Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide.
POLAND: President Andrzej Duda and his wife.
PORTUGAL: President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa and Prime Minister Luís Montenegro.
ROMANIA: Interim President Ilie Bolojan.
RUSSIA: Culture Minister Olga Lyubimova.
SLOVAKIA: President Peter Pellegrini.
SLOVENIA: President Nataša Pirc Musar and Prime Minister Robert Golob.
SPAIN: King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia.
SWEDEN: King Carl XVI Gustaf and Queen Silvia, along with Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson.
UKRAINE: President Volodymyr Zelensky and his wife Olena Zelenska.
UNITED KINGDOM: Prince William representing King Charles III and Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
Middle East
ISRAEL: Yaron Sideman, Ambassador to the Holy See.
Africa
CAPE VERDE: President José Maria Neves.
CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC: President Faustin-Archange Touadéra.
Asia
INDIA: President Droupadi Murmu.
PHILIPPINES: President Ferdinand Marcos and First Lady Liza Marcos.
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42% of U.S. Catholics See Pope Francis as a Change Agent
The Legacy of Pope Francis: A Symbol of Change in the Catholic Church
A New Era in the Vatican
Pope Francis, elected as the first Latin American pontiff in 2013, transformed the Catholic Church’s global image. His papacy was marked by an unprecedented emphasis on humility, mercy, and social justice, which resonated deeply with many, especially in the United States. His progressive approach to various issues created a significant departure from the traditional teachings and practices of the Church, often inciting both admiration and resistance from Catholics worldwide.
A Humble Leader with a Bold Vision
Upon his election, Pope Francis immediately set the tone for a different kind of papacy. Foregoing many of the luxuries traditionally associated with the papal office, he often opted for simplicity and accessibility. In his addresses and teachings, he encouraged Catholics to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage, and universal love. This focus on compassion and reaching out to the marginalized became hallmarks of his leadership.
A Pastoral Approach to Controversial Topics
One of the key features of Pope Francis’s papacy was his approach to controversial subjects. Unlike his predecessor, Pope Benedict XVI, who upheld strict adherence to Church doctrine, Francis sought to foster dialogue and understanding. He was often seen softening the Church’s stance on sensitive issues like LGBTQ+ rights and divorce, demonstrating a pastoral approach centered on compassion rather than condemnation.
While he maintained traditional Catholic teachings on issues such as contraception and abortion, his message emphasized love and acceptance over rigid orthodoxy. This reorientation welcomed many who felt alienated by the Church, especially younger generations seeking a more inclusive environment.
The Popularity of Pope Francis Among U.S. Catholics
Pope Francis garnered considerable popularity among U.S. Catholics during his tenure. Polls conducted by the Pew Research Center indicated that a significant portion of U.S. Catholics viewed him as a symbol of change within the Church. Notably, 42% of U.S. Catholics expressed that they believed he represented a major change in direction for the Catholic Church. This sense of optimism wasn’t limited to those who viewed him favorably; intriguingly, even 54% of Catholics who held unfavorable opinions of him acknowledged that he symbolized significant change.
Engaging with Political Realities
Pope Francis’s papacy also intersected with political landscapes, particularly in the United States. His vocal criticism of former President Donald Trump during Trump’s first term drew both support and backlash. This engagement with political issues reflected his commitment to social justice and his relentless advocacy for the poor and marginalized, as well as his concern for global issues such as climate change and inequality.
Opposition from Conservative Circles
Despite his popularity, Pope Francis faced considerable opposition from conservative factions within the Church. Critics accused him of straying from traditional Catholic doctrine and embracing progressive ideologies that challenge established norms. This tension highlighted the deep divisions within the Church, as many conservatives argued that his approach could lead to confusion about core Catholic beliefs.
Pope Francis’s Enduring Impact
The legacy of Pope Francis will certainly be examined in light of the profound changes he promoted during his leadership. His commitment to inclusivity, his focus on social justice, and his ability to engage with the cultural and political realities of our time have redefined what it means to be a leader of the Catholic Church. As the Church moves forward, the influence of his papacy will likely continue to provoke discussion and reflection, navigating the balance between tradition and the need for reform.
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Cardinals Gather to Plan Funeral After Pope Francis’ Passing
Clergy members hold a Mass in remembrance of Pope Francis after his passing at the Metropolitan Cathedral of Our Lady of Peace in La Paz, Bolivia, April 21, 2025. — Reuters - Francis advocated for the poor while facing opposition from traditionalists.
- All cardinals are invited to convene at the Vatican.
- President Trump plans to attend Francis’ funeral.
VATICAN CITY: Cardinals are set to convene on Tuesday to organize the funeral for Pope Francis, with global leaders expected to attend before a conclave next month to appoint a new head of the Roman Catholic Church.
Pope Francis, 88, passed away unexpectedly on Monday after suffering from a stroke and cardiac arrest, as reported by the Vatican. This concluded a papacy marked by significant challenges, including conflicts with traditionalists and a strong emphasis on advocating for the less fortunate and marginalized communities.
The pontiff had spent five weeks in the hospital earlier this year due to double pneumonia but returned to his Vatican residence almost a month ago, appearing recovered when he appeared in St. Peter’s Square during Easter Sunday services.
His sudden passing triggered ancient rituals within the 1.4 billion-member church as it transitions from one pope to the next. This includes the breaking of the pope’s “Fisherman’s Ring” and lead seal to prevent further use by anyone else.
“We extend our gratitude to the Lord for the gifts bestowed upon the entire Church through the apostolic ministry of Pope Francis, a messenger of hope,” stated Cardinal Mauro Gambetti, who led the evening prayers at St. Peter’s Square on Monday.
All cardinals currently in Rome have been invited to come together at the Vatican at 9 AM (0700 GMT) to discuss funeral arrangements.
US President Donald Trump, who has had disagreements with the pope over immigration policies, announced that he and his wife will travel to Rome to attend the funeral. Other notable leaders expected to be present include Javier Milei, president of Francis’ home country, Argentina.
The Vatican anticipates that the funeral service will occur sometime between Friday and Sunday. In a departure from tradition, Francis confirmed in his final will, released on Monday, his wish to be laid to rest in Rome’s Basilica of Saint Mary Major rather than St. Peter’s Basilica.
The cardinal gathering will also address the operational matters of the Church during the interim period before a new pope is selected.
Typically, a conclave to elect a new pope occurs 15 to 20 days following a pope’s death, indicating that it should not commence before May 6. Approximately 135 cardinals are eligible to participate in the secretive voting process, which may extend over several days.
Currently, there is no clear choice to succeed Pope Francis.
Progressive Outlook
Pope Francis took the reins of a Church in turmoil and diligently worked to reform the Vatican’s central administration, combat corruption, and—after a gradual start—address the child abuse crisis within the clergy.
He often found himself at odds with conservatives who yearned for a more traditional approach and perceived Francis as excessively liberal and too accommodating to marginalized groups, including the LGBTQ community.
The pope nominated nearly 80% of the cardinal electors worldwide who will influence the selection of his successor, increasing, though not guaranteeing, the chances that his progressive initiatives will carry on.
Many cardinals are relatively unknown outside their home countries, and they will have the opportunity to familiarize themselves with one another during meetings called General Congregations, which take place in the days preceding the conclave and help outline the characteristics needed for the next pope.
The Vatican announced late Monday that the staff and officials within the Holy See could start to pay their respects in front of the pope’s body at the Santa Marta residence, where Francis resided since 2013, opting for a more modest home than the grand apostolic palace utilized by his predecessors.
His remains may be moved to St. Peter’s Basilica as soon as Wednesday morning for public viewing, according to the Vatican’s statements.
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Vatican Confirms Pope Francis Passed from Stroke and Heart Failure
Pope Francis during the weekly general audience at the Vatican’s Paul VI Hall on December 14, 2022. — Reuters Pope Francis has passed away due to complications from a stroke that resulted in a coma and irreversible heart failure, as indicated in a death certificate issued by the Vatican on Monday, according to AFP.
The 88-year-old papal leader died at 7:35 AM local time in his apartment at the Santa Marta residence.
Just weeks prior to his death, Francis had been discharged from a five-week hospitalization where he struggled with double pneumonia. The death certificate lists “cerebral stroke, coma, irreversible cardiocirculatory collapse” as the official causes of death.
Further details from the Vatican document, signed by Professor Andrea Arcangeli, the head of health for Vatican City, revealed additional health issues that had not been previously disclosed.
In addition to pneumonia, the pope had been dealing with arterial hypertension, Type 2 diabetes, and chronic bronchiectasis, which affects the airways.
In recent months, concerns had grown about his declining health, particularly due to his respiratory problems. The extent of his underlying health conditions had not been made public prior to his passing.
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World Leaders Honor Pope Francis Following His Passing
Pope Francis greets the audience from the balcony while delivering his Christmas Urbi et Orbi blessing in St. Peter’s Square at The Vatican on December 25, 2022. — AFP Pope Francis, who made history as the first leader from Latin America to head the Roman Catholic Church, has passed away, as announced by the Vatican in a video statement on Monday. He was 88 years old and had been battling a severe case of double pneumonia recently.
As the worldwide Christian community mourns, tributes are pouring in from global leaders honoring the late pontiff.
U.S. Vice President JD Vance, who had just met with the pope during a recent trip to Italy, expressed his condolences for Christians around the world. “I was deeply saddened to hear about Pope Francis’ passing. My thoughts are with the countless Christians globally who held him dear. It was a joy to see him yesterday (Sunday), despite his evident illness. I’ll always cherish his beautiful homily from the early days of COVID,” he stated.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed her sorrow over the loss of “a remarkable man and a guiding shepherd.” She remarked, “I was fortunate to have his friendship and to receive his guidance and teachings, which never ceased even in times of hardship.”
French President Emmanuel Macron paid his respects, saying, “Throughout his time as pope, Francis consistently stood by the most vulnerable and fragile among us, demonstrating great humility. In these times of conflict and brutality, he showed a deep empathy for others.”
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also remembered the late pope, noting that “Pope Francis will forever be recognized as a symbol of compassion, humility, and spiritual courage to millions around the globe.” He added, “He dedicated himself to supporting the poor and the marginalized, inspiring hope in those who suffered. I fondly recall my discussions with him and was profoundly moved by his dedication to inclusive development. His affection for the people of India will be fondly remembered. May his soul rest in peace within God’s embrace.”
German Chancellor-in-Waiting Friedrich Merz emphasized Pope Francis’ unwavering commitment to the most disadvantaged members of society. He remarked on X, “He was guided by humility and had faith in God’s mercy.”
Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David, President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines, expressed his deep shock over the news of Pope Francis’s passing. He requested that “the bells of our churches be rung and our communities called to prayer for the eternal rest of our Holy Father, Pope Francis, who passed away just minutes ago.”
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Vatican Reports: Pope Francis Has Passed Away
Pope Francis greets the crowd upon his arrival for the weekly audience in Saint Peter’s Square at the Vatican. — Reuters Pope Francis passed away on Monday at the age of 88, just a day after his cherished appearance at Saint Peter’s Square for Easter Sunday, per a statement from the Vatican.
“This morning at 7:35 AM, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, has returned to the home of the Father,” stated Cardinal Kevin Farrell in the announcement shared on the Vatican’s Telegram channel.
This story is still developing, and additional details will be provided.
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Pope Francis Returns Home to Vatican After Five-Week Hospital Stay
Pope Francis makes his first public appearance in five weeks, on the day he is discharged from Gemelli Hospital in Rome, Italy, March 23, 2025. — Reuters - Pope Francis returns to the public eye for the first time since February 14.
- The pope had been battling double pneumonia along with other complications.
- Medical professionals recommend a two-month recovery period for him.
Pope Francis returned to the Vatican on Sunday after enduring a five-week hospitalization due to double pneumonia, marking one of the most significant health challenges of his 12-year papacy.
The 88-year-old pontiff, who made his first public appearance since February 14 just before leaving Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, departed the facility shortly after noon.
His car was escorted by police through the streets of Rome, briefly stopping to deliver flowers to the Basilica of Saint Mary Major, a church to which he has a deep connection and visits frequently.
Although the pope is back from the hospital, his doctors have indicated that it will take “a considerable amount of time” for his older body to fully recover.
They have advised him to rest for an additional two months at the Vatican and to avoid large or demanding meetings, leaving uncertainty about his level of activity in the near future.
Before leaving the hospital on Sunday, Francis smiled and waved at well-wishers gathered outside, using a wheelchair—as he has done for several years.
His face appeared swollen, and bandages were visible on both arms beneath his white cassock during this brief appearance.
He spoke softly to thank a 79-year-old supporter, Carmela Vittoria Mancuso, who had been visiting him daily during his treatment and brought him yellow flowers. She later told Reuters her heart felt “overjoyed” when the pope acknowledged her.
During his hospitalization, he had been seen publicly only once before, in a photo released by the Vatican showing him praying in the chapel of the hospital.
Although Francis has been reliant on oxygen support during his hospitalization, he was breathing independently during his recent public appearance. However, he was seen using an oxygen tube while being driven in his car.
The crowd of hundreds outside the hospital cheered and chanted “Francis, Francis, Francis” just before the pontiff made his appearance on Sunday.
Gratitude to Medical Staff for ‘Unwavering Care’
Since becoming pope in 2013, Francis had initially been admitted to the hospital for a case of bronchitis that escalated into double pneumonia, linked to what his medical team described as a “complex” infection involving multiple microorganisms.
Throughout his 38 days in the hospital, he experienced four serious episodes of what was termed “respiratory crises” by the Vatican, characterized by severe coughing fits due to airway constriction, similar to asthma attacks.
Two of these crises were critical and posed a risk to his life, as noted by Sergio Alfieri, the leader of the pope’s medical team, during a press conference on Saturday.
While the pneumonia has cleared up, the pope is not yet fully recovered, according to his doctors. Alfieri also mentioned that it would take time for him to regain his voice after such a prolonged struggle with the respiratory infection.
On Sunday, the Vatican shared a brief statement attributed to Francis, expressing his gratitude to the medical staff for their “unwavering care.”
Many Catholics across the globe had been praying for his recovery, and visitors to the Vatican on Sunday expressed relief at his release from the hospital.
“This news brings joy and hope to us all,” said Grazia Mara, an Italian visitor. “We wish him a safe return home and a quick recovery.”
While in the hospital, the pope continued to fulfill his duties, making episcopal appointments worldwide and initiating a new three-year reform process for the Church.
However, his two-month rest period may lead to significant adjustments in the Vatican’s schedule of upcoming events.
He had been scheduled to meet Britain’s King Charles on April 8 and to lead the Vatican’s annual Easter services on April 20, but the Vatican has not clarified if he will be able to attend those meetings.
