The Vatican is entering a solemn chapter of transition following the death of Pope Francis, who passed away on Monday at age 88 after suffering a stroke. Now, the College of Cardinals will gather on Tuesday, April 22, to determine the date of his funeral and initiate the process of selecting a new spiritual leader—one expected to take no more than three weeks.
Pope Francis, a native of Argentina and the spiritual shepherd of 1.4 billion Catholics, had been battling complications from a severe bout of double pneumonia that recently kept him hospitalized for over a month. Despite efforts to stabilize his health, the pontiff died at his residence within the Vatican walls.
As the world absorbs the news, tributes and mourning ceremonies have begun. Argentina has declared a week of national mourning in honor of its most prominent religious figure, while India, in a rare diplomatic gesture, launched three days of state mourning—highlighting Francis’s far-reaching influence.
Preparations are now underway for what’s expected to be a monumental funeral at St. Peter’s Basilica, drawing heads of state and royalty from around the globe. Among the first to confirm his attendance is former U.S. President Donald Trump.
In an unexpected break from tradition, Pope Francis will be buried at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome. That move marks the first time in over a century that a pontiff will be laid to rest outside the Vatican grounds.
As bells toll and black drapes descend across churches worldwide, the Catholic Church finds itself on the threshold of new leadership—one that must rise from the weighty legacy Pope Francis leaves behind.
