Pope Francis died Monday morning at his Vatican residence, Church officials announced. He was 88. Vatican officials stated a stroke led to a coma. Irreversible heart failure followed. Dr. Andrea Arcangeli, who leads Vatican health, confirmed the cause. Francis had faced recent health struggles, including pneumonia.
His death came a day after Francis appeared in St. Peter's Square. He delivered an Easter blessing to thousands present. He also made a surprise ride in the popemobile. This marked his last public appearance before his death.
The Vatican initiated immediate steps following Francis' passing. Cardinal Kevin Farrell assumed temporary leadership as camerlengo. Officials sealed papal apartments with ribbon and wax seals. This action signifies the "sede vacante" period. Cardinals will gather for a first meeting Tuesday. They will begin discussions on the next steps.
Francis planned funeral details in his will dated June 2022. He asked for burial at the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome. This Basilica houses his favorite Virgin Mary icon. Most popes rest in St. Peter's. Francis desired a simple tomb. It should have no specific decoration, just his name.
World leaders offered condolences. President Trump ordered U.S. flags flown at half-staff. He made the order as a mark of respect. Trump called Francis a good man who loved the world. Argentine President Javier Milei also issued a statement. Milei had previously criticized Francis. Milei softened his tone after his election. He visited Francis at the Vatican.
One scheduled event was postponed. The canonization of Carlo Acutis, the first millennial saint, is delayed. The Vatican announced this due to Pope Francis' death. Acutis was set for canonization next Sunday. A new date is not yet set.
Cardinals must now gather in Rome. They will elect a new pope in a conclave. Rules outlined in the constitution Universi Dominici Gregis govern this process. Cardinals under 80 participate in the voting. The process typically takes weeks.
About 120 cardinals can vote. They are sequestered until a decision is made. A two-thirds majority is required. White smoke from the Sistine Chapel chimney signals a new pope's election. Several cardinals are considered contenders. These include figures from the Americas, Europe, and Africa.
Francis was born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina. He was the first Jesuit pope. He also was the first from the Americas. His life journey included work as a nightclub bouncer before seminary. Francis led the Church for 12 years. He focused on serving others.
