Pope Francis has died at the age of 88, leaving behind a legacy marked by a commitment to social justice and a more humble approach to the papacy. His passing was confirmed by the Vatican, which stated that the Pope died due to a stroke and heart failure. This announcement has sent shockwaves through the global Catholic community and beyond.
In the aftermath of his death, Cardinal Mauro Gambetti led a public rosary prayer at St. Peter's Square, attended by thousands of mourners. The service began as the sun set, with Gambetti opening the prayer by echoing one of Francis's memorable phrases: "Forget not to pray for me." This event was a poignant reminder of the Pope's connection with his followers.
As the news of his death spread, U.S. President Donald Trump expressed his intention to attend the Pope's funeral, though the exact date remains uncertain. Trump remarked during an Easter event at the White House, "He was a very good man who loved the world, especially those who were going through tough times. I find that positive." His comments echo the sentiments of many who admired Francis for his compassion and outreach.
Francis's death has led to national mourning in Argentina, his home country, where President Javier Milei expressed his profound sadness. "As president, as an Argentine, and as a believer, I bid farewell to the Holy Father and stand with all those affected by this sad news," he wrote on social media. The Argentine government has declared seven days of national mourning in honor of the Pope, who was a beloved figure in his homeland.
In Belgium, the Bishops' Conference is organizing a memorial service for Pope Francis at the Basilica of Koekelberg on April 24, 2025, at 19:00. Archbishop Luc Terlinden will lead the Mass, and a mourning register will be available in every cathedral across the country. Many churches have already rung their bells in tribute to the late pontiff.
As part of the protocol following the Pope's death, the camerlengo, a cardinal responsible for the administration of the Vatican during the Sede Vacante (the period without a pope), has confirmed the Pope's death. He will destroy the Fisherman's Ring, the papal seal, and seal the papal apartments in the Apostolic Palace. However, it is worth noting that Pope Francis never resided in the Apostolic Palace, choosing instead to live in an apartment at Casa Santa Marta.
After the Pope's body is prepared for lying in state in St. Peter's Basilica, a funeral Mass will be held nine days after his passing. This will take place in St. Peter's Square, where the Pope's body will be displayed in a closed coffin. The service is expected to draw members of the College of Cardinals, heads of state from around the world, and thousands of faithful.
In a departure from tradition, Pope Francis had previously instituted new, more modest rules for his funeral. He requested not to be displayed on a raised bier with papal attributes, but rather in a simple coffin, stating that the ceremony should reflect the humility of a pastor and disciple of Christ, rather than that of a powerful figure. This change signifies his desire for a more personal and relatable farewell.
The conclave to elect a new pope will begin between fifteen to twenty days after his death. Cardinals under the age of eighty will gather in the Sistine Chapel, where a two-thirds majority is required for the first thirty votes. After that, a simple majority will suffice. The election of the new pope will be marked by the appearance of white smoke from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel.
As the world mourns, reactions continue to pour in. President Trump has ordered all American flags to be flown at half-mast as a tribute to the Pope, calling him a "good man" who worked hard for the people. In Belgium, King Philippe and Queen Mathilde referred to Francis as "a great man, close to the most vulnerable and concerned with the problems of the world," expressing their condolences to all Catholics and admirers of the Pope.
However, not all reflections on Francis's legacy are positive. Some critics, including retired priest Rik Devillé, have stated that the Pope did not do enough for victims of sexual abuse within the Church. "His words were sometimes beautiful and powerful, but his actions towards the victims often came off as hypocritical," Devillé remarked, highlighting the ongoing struggles within the Church.
Francis's health had been a concern in recent years; he spent five weeks in the hospital earlier this spring due to pneumonia and had been dealing with respiratory issues. Despite these challenges, he continued to engage with the public until his final days, having appeared on the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica just days before his death to deliver the traditional Easter blessing.
As the faithful around the world gather to pay their respects, the legacy of Pope Francis will undoubtedly continue to be a topic of discussion and reflection. His commitment to social justice, humility, and pastoral care has left an indelible mark on the Church and its followers.
In the coming days, as preparations for his funeral and the conclave to elect a new pope unfold, the world will not only mourn the loss of a spiritual leader but will also reflect on the profound impact he had on millions.
