Pope Francis Passes Away
On a solemn Easter Monday, the world mourned the passing of Pope Francis. The late pontiff, aged 88, dedicated his life to serving the Church and its followers. An announcement regarding his death was made by Cardinal Kevin Farrell from the Casa Santa Marta. In his message, Cardinal Farrell expressed deep sorrow and shared the news that Pope Francis departed this world at 7:35 AM, returning to the house of the Father.
The Pope was known for his tireless dedication to the teachings of the Gospel and his unfailing love for the poor and marginalized. He exemplified true discipleship through his actions and words. As the church reflects on his legacy, believers are encouraged to unite in prayer for his eternal repose.
Arrangements Following His Passing
Shortly after the announcement of his passing, Director of the Holy See Press Office, Matteo Bruni, provided details about honoring the late Pope. Plans are underway for transferring his body to St. Peter’s Basilica, allowing the faithful to pay their respects. This solemn procession is anticipated to occur on the morning of Wednesday, April 23, 2025.
The Vatican has made arrangements to ensure that all followers have an opportunity to venerate the Pope’s mortal remains. A detailed itinerary will be shared following the first Congregation of the Cardinals.
The Final Rituals
Monday evening witnessed the sacred rite of certification of death and placement in the coffin at 8:00 PM. This ceremony unfolded in the chapel located at the late Pope’s residence in Casa Santa Marta. Cardinal Farrell validated the rite, marking the beginning of the farewell process.
As a sign of respect, seals were placed on the Pope’s apartments both in the Apostolic Palace and in Casa Santa Marta. Pope Francis’ collaborators, deeply moved by his passing, began their personal farewells, paying tribute to his significant contribution to the Church.
Preparations for the Final Farewell
The church community now awaits the first General Congregation of Cardinals, a gathering slated for Tuesday morning. A key agenda item will be setting the date for Pope Francis’ funeral. The Church anticipates bringing together believers from across the globe in a display of faith and unity.
Before his death, Pope Francis had been hospitalized at the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital since mid-February 2025, following complications from bronchitis. Despite the medical team’s efforts, his condition escalated to bilateral pneumonia, requiring extended care but eventually, he returned to his Vatican residence.
A Life Dedicated to Compassion
The Pope of Mercy
From a young age, Jorge Mario Bergoglio, who would become Pope Francis, experienced significant health challenges, including lung surgery in Argentina during his 20s. Throughout his papacy, he often faced respiratory illnesses, leading him to cancel engagements, such as his planned visit to the UAE in late 2023 due to respiratory complications.
Guiding the Church to Simplicity
In April 2024, Pope Francis expressed his desire for simpler funeral rites, emphasizing the resurrection of Christ and the pastoral nature of the event. These wishes were incorporated into the second edition of the Ordo Exsequiarum Romani Pontificis, ensuring that the observance reflects a pastor’s humility rather than worldly power.
Master of Apostolic Ceremonies, Archbishop Diego Ravelli, elaborated on the simplicity requested by Pope Francis, highlighting an enhanced focus on faith. The rites were adjusted to align with these guiding principles, emphasizing the spiritual above the ceremonial.
Our hearts are drawn to remember a beloved leader, whose teachings and actions will resonate through time.
