What Happened to Pope Francis?
The world mourned the loss of Pope Francis, the first Latin American pontiff, who passed away on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88.
His death, caused by a stroke and irreversible heart failure, marked the end of a transformative 12-year papacy defined by humility and compassion.
This blog post explores the events of his final 24 hours, the Vatican’s preparations for his funeral, and the lasting impact of his leadership.
A Day of Blessings: Pope Francis’ Final Public Appearance
Just hours before his passing, Pope Francis defied his frail health to deliver an Easter Sunday blessing from St. Peter’s Square.
Despite a recent 38-day hospitalization for double pneumonia, the pontiff appeared in his popemobile, waving to a crowd of 35,000 faithful.
This act, now seen as his farewell, showcased his unwavering commitment to his flock.
Italian President Sergio Mattarella described it as “his final goodbye to the Church.”
The Final Hours
On Monday morning, Pope Francis awoke at 6 a.m. to his alarm clock at Casa Santa Marta, his Vatican residence.
By 7:35 a.m., he suffered a stroke, fell into a coma, and succumbed to irreversible cardiovascular collapse.
Vatican doctor Andrea Arcangeli confirmed his medical history, including acute respiratory failure, high blood pressure, and Type II diabetes, which compounded his condition.
His death certificate noted the suddenness of the event, shocking many who had seen him vibrant the previous day.
Vatican Preparations: Honoring a Humble Leader
Following his passing, the Vatican swiftly began preparations for Pope Francis’ funeral, set for Saturday, April 26, 2025, at St. Peter’s Basilica.
His body, laid in an open wooden coffin adorned with red cloth, was displayed in his private chapel on Monday.
From Wednesday, April 23, the public can pay respects at St. Peter’s Basilica during extended hours (11 a.m. to midnight on Wednesday, 7 a.m. onward Thursday and Friday).
In a break from tradition, Francis requested a simple burial at the Basilica of Saint Mary Major, reflecting his lifelong humility.
A Global Outpouring of Grief
Tributes poured in from world leaders and the faithful. French President Emmanuel Macron praised Francis for bringing “joy and hope to the poorest,” while Argentina’s San Lorenzo football club honored their lifelong member.
In Buenos Aires, residents lit candles in the church where a young Francis found his calling.
His advocacy for refugees, the LGBTQ+ community, and climate action left an indelible mark, though critics argued he could have done more to address clergy abuse.
The Road Ahead: Choosing a Successor
The death of Pope Francis triggered a series of ancient rituals, culminating in a conclave to elect the next pope.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Vatican’s camerlengo, is overseeing the transition, including certifying the pontiff’s death and securing his residence.
The secretive conclave, expected within weeks, will see cardinals like Peter Erdo and Fridolin Ambongo Besungu among potential candidates.
The process, shrouded in secrecy, will shape the future of the Catholic Church’s 1.4 billion followers.
Conclusion
Pope Francis’ final 24 hours encapsulated his life’s mission: to serve with compassion, even in the face of personal struggle.
As the Vatican prepares for his funeral and the world awaits a new pontiff, his legacy as a reformer and advocate for the marginalized endures.
Share your thoughts on Pope Francis’ impact in the comments below, and stay tuned for updates on the conclave and the Catholic Church’s next chapter.
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