🕊️ Life and Legacy of Pope Francis
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, was the first Jesuit pope and the first from the Americas. He was elected as the 266th pope of the Roman Catholic Church on March 13, 2013, following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI. His papacy was characterized by a commitment to humility, social justice, and a focus on the marginalized. He emphasized environmental stewardship, notably through his 2015 encyclical Laudato Si’, and advocated for a more inclusive Church, engaging in dialogue on issues such as family, immigration, and LGBTQ+ rights. CT Insider
Pope Francis passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88, following a prolonged illness that included double pneumonia. His death marked the end of a 12-year papacy, during which he emphasized inclusivity, social justice, and environmental stewardship, while maintaining traditional Catholic doctrines. He was the second pope to die in office in the 21st century, after Pope John Paul II in 2005 .The Guardian+2Wikipedia+2Diskurso PH – Salitang May Gawa+2Vox
⚰️ Funeral Details
Following his death, Pope Francis’s body lay in state at St. Peter’s Basilica, where approximately 250,000 people paid their respects. The funeral Mass took place on April 26, 2025, in St. Peter’s Square, with an estimated 130 delegations and 250,000 attendees. World leaders, including President Droupadi Murmu of India, President Javier Milei of Argentina, and President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva of Brazil, were present. Notably, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu were absent due to international arrest warrants. Vygr NewsWikipedia
In accordance with his wishes, Pope Francis was buried at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome, near the Salus Populi Romani icon, reflecting his deep devotion to the Virgin Mary. This marked the first papal burial there since Pope Clement IX in 1669. The burial ceremony was attended by 40 individuals from marginalized communities, including migrants, prisoners, and the homeless, in line with his commitment to inclusivity. Wikipedia+1Wikipedia+1
🕊️ Spiritual Testament
In his spiritual testament, dated June 29, 2022, Pope Francis expressed his desire to be buried at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, reflecting his deep devotion to the Virgin Mary. He also requested that his funeral be simple and that his legacy be one of service to the poor and the marginalized. Wikipedia+1Wikipedia+1
🌍 Global Tributes
Pope Francis’s death prompted tributes from around the world. In India, President Droupadi Murmu and other officials paid homage at St. Peter’s Basilica. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences, stating, “The world will always remember his service to society.” Vygr News
Following his death, a conclave was convened on May 7, 2025, to elect his successor. As of May 8, 2025, the conclave is ongoing, with 133 cardinals under the age of 80 participating. The process requires a two-thirds majority to elect a new pope, and while some conclaves have been lengthy, this one is expected to conclude within a few days .People.comDecider+2The Irish Sun+2People.com+2
As of May 8, 2025, the papal conclave convened to elect a successor to Pope Francis is still ongoing. The conclave began on May 7, 2025, with 133 cardinals under the age of 80 participating in the election process. The conclave is conducted in secrecy, and the election of the new pope will be signaled by the appearance of white smoke from the Sistine Chapel chimney. Latest news & breaking headlinesPeople.com
Leading Candidates
Several cardinals are considered prominent candidates for the papacy:Axios
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Cardinal Pietro Parolin (Italy): The Vatican’s Secretary of State since 2013, Parolin is known for his diplomatic experience and moderate approach to Church leadership. He has worked closely with Pope Francis and is seen as a potential continuity candidate. Latest news & breaking headlines+2Wion+2The Express Tribune+2
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Cardinal Péter Erdő (Hungary): Serving as the Archbishop of Esztergom-Budapest, Erdő is recognized for his conservative views on doctrinal matters. He has previously opposed allowing divorced and remarried Catholics to receive Communion and has taken a hard stance on immigration. Wion+5The Washington Post+5The Express Tribune+5
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Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle (Philippines): Often referred to as the “Asian Pope Francis,” Tagle is known for his progressive views on inclusivity and social justice. He has advocated for a more welcoming Church for divorced Catholics and LGBTQ individuals. The Express Tribune+2The Washington Times+2Wikipedia+2
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Cardinal Matteo Zuppi (Italy): A close ally of Pope Francis, Zuppi has been involved in peacebuilding efforts and is known for his inclusive approach to Church leadership. He could be a candidate who continues Francis’s legacy. Latest news & breaking headlines+2The Express Tribune+2trstdly+2
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Cardinal Robert Prevost (USA): Appointed by Pope Francis as Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, Prevost has gained prominence and is considered a potential candidate for the papacy. Wikipedia
The conclave is expected to conclude within a few days, and the election of the new pope will be announced once a decision has been reached.