Vatican photo of Pope Francis in open casket released.
Yesterday, the world was stunned to learn that Pope Francis, aged 88, has passed away.
Pope Francis’ legacy highlighted.
Pope Francis had been a beacon of hope, love, and faith throughout his remarkable tenure as the Bishop of Rome and head of the Catholic Church.
The 2013 papal resignation of Benedict XVI paved the way for Francis to take the papal seat, bringing new hope and modernity to the Vatican.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, he became the 266th Pope of the Catholic Church in 2013, marking a historic moment.
His election was a turning point, ushering in a new era for the Church. He was the first Jesuit Pope and the first from the Americas.
From the start, Pope Francis was determined to bring reforms to the Vatican and address issues like poverty and climate change.
His leadership was marked by a desire to make the Church more inclusive, opening dialogues on controversial issues such as divorce and same-sex relationships.
Renowned for his simplicity, Pope Francis lived humbly, often choosing to interact with ordinary people over grand ceremonies.
His outreach wasn’t just local but global, with notable trips to places like Africa, the Middle East, and the United States.
He was especially passionate about advocating for the poor and marginalized, calling them the true face of Christ.
Despite his worldwide fame, Pope Francis always resisted the trappings of celebrity, focusing instead on his faith and the service of others.
Earlier this year, health concerns began to mount for the aging Pope, with reports of a lung condition and concerns for his heart health.
Though resilient, Pope Francis faced challenges due to his health, including a brief hospitalization. Yet, he continued to serve the Church with unwavering devotion.
In his last months, the Pope gave poignant messages urging the faithful to focus on unity and the values of love, peace, and reconciliation.
His message of mercy, compassion, and commitment to the environment has left an indelible mark on both the Catholic Church and the world.
Pope Francis’ death profiled.
The Vatican confirmed that the Pope’s death was caused by a cerebral stroke, which then led to heart failure.
Despite the rumors, Sky News clarified that his recent hospitalization for a lung condition was not a direct cause of his death.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell was the first to announce the heartbreaking news in a statement, urging the faithful to reflect on Francis’ life and service.
“Dearest brothers and sisters,” the Cardinal said, “With deep sorrow, I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis.”
Farrell emphasized the Pope’s devotion to living out the values of the Gospel, focusing on universal love, and service to the marginalized.
“He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage, and universal love,” Farrell continued, acknowledging the Pope’s dedication to humanity.
With deep gratitude, the Cardinal praised the Pope’s example of compassion, adding that Francis’s soul is now entrusted to God’s infinite love.
Vatican’s casket pictures described.
In the wake of the announcement, the Vatican shared a series of photos of Pope Francis lying in his open casket.
These images, which have since gone viral, depict the Pope in a solemn state, giving the faithful a chance to say their final goodbyes.
The Pope’s casket will soon be transported to St. Peter’s Basilica, where it will be available for public viewing.
The Vatican announced that a period of mourning will last for nine days, with a funeral to follow.
The date for the funeral, though yet to be set, will be decided by the cardinals later this week.
Today, behind closed doors, plans for the Pope’s funeral and further tributes are being discussed with the utmost care and reverence.
Pope Francis to receive a global farewell.
Pope Francis’s passing marks the end of a papacy that sought to challenge convention, bridge divides, and uplift the downtrodden.
As the Vatican prepares for his funeral, the world mourns the loss of a man who reshaped the Church and inspired millions.
Pope Francis’s journey was one of humility, courage, and profound spirituality, leaving behind a legacy that will endure for generations.
The faithful across the world now prepare to pay their respects to a man who embodied the very spirit of the Church’s mission.