Pope Francis Dies at 88; A Humble Giant Leaves a Legacy of Compassion and Reform
On Easter Monday, April 21, the world bid farewell to Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 88 following a cerebral stroke that led to coma and heart failure. His passing marked the end of an era defined by humility, compassion, and bold reform within the Catholic Church.
Following nine solemn days of mourning and the traditional sede vacante, the College of Cardinals gathered beneath Michelangelo’s frescoes in the Sistine Chapel. After several rounds of voting, white smoke finally rose—signaling the election of a new pope. Though his identity remained initially undisclosed, the Vatican has now officially confirmed the successor.
In a final act of humility, Pope Francis’ will—released on April 22—requested a modest burial at the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major, near the Pauline and Sforza Chapels. His tomb will bear a single word: Franciscus. A man devoted to simplicity and deeply connected to the Virgin Mary, he offered his final moments of suffering for global peace and unity.
Pope Francis will be remembered as a transformative figure—guided by the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi—who brought a message of mercy, inclusiveness, and hope to millions around the globe.
