Details of Pope Francis’ burial confirmed.
Known globally for his humility and progressive stance, Pope Francis’ death marks the end of a transformational papacy.
Pope Francis’ legacy highlighted.
Francis was the first pontiff from Latin America, breaking centuries of Euro-centric tradition in the Roman Catholic Church.
Born in Argentina in 1936, Bergoglio lived a life far from the opulence of Rome.
Humble and soft-spoken, he rose steadily through the ranks of the Church.
He was elected after the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI, another break from tradition.
From choosing simpler papal garments to living in the guesthouse instead of the papal palace — Francis signaled change.
From migrants to LGBTQ+ individuals, he often spoke about compassion over condemnation.
His encyclical Laudato si’ called for urgent environmental action — a first for the papacy.
He repeatedly condemned violence in Ukraine and the Middle East.
Pope Francis’ death announced.
The Vatican confirmed early Monday morning that Pope Francis passed away at 7:35 a.m. local time, aged 88.
“Dearest brothers and sisters,” said Camerlengo Farrell, “we announce the death of our Holy Father with deep sorrow.”
Francis had been in declining health, battling pneumonia in both lungs and kidney issues.
Doctors diagnosed him with chronic bronchitis that escalated to serious respiratory distress.
The Pope vomited during the episode and his breathing rapidly deteriorated.
He made public appearances and even led Easter services just weeks before his passing.
Tributes for Pope Francis revealed.
UK’s King Charles expressed deep sorrow, saying Francis “profoundly touched” countless lives.
They met with him on April 9 — their 20th wedding anniversary — in what would be their final audience.
He praised the Pope’s commitment to “people and planet,” a rare royal endorsement of papal activism.
Across continents, tributes continue to pour in for the Pope who defied expectations.
Pope Francis’ burial arrangements clarified.
In a stunning break with centuries of tradition, Pope Francis will not be buried beneath St. Peter’s Basilica.
“The place is already prepared,” he said in 2023. “I wish to be buried in St. Mary Major.”
He had a deep devotion to the Byzantine icon of the Virgin Mary housed there.
Popes have traditionally been buried in the grottoes under the Vatican for centuries.
Throughout his reign, he challenged norms — and this final act fits the man perfectly.
In a soft but firm tone, he declared he wouldn’t rest in the Vatican.
The Pope revealed the location had long been special to him.
He prayed to her before and after every overseas trip — often alone and without fanfare.
This move sends a clear message: faith first, formality second.
The Vatican will begin nine days of mourning.
Not being buried in the Vatican breaks an unspoken rule followed by his predecessors for centuries.
Francis never cared for pomp. Even in death, he chooses devotion over display.
Funeral details are expected to be finalized soon, with ceremonies likely drawing millions.
From Buenos Aires to the basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, this was a pope who rewrote the playbook — even in death.