Tributes pour in globally as mourners gather in St. Peter's Square, celebrating the life of Pope Francis, who championed the marginalized and emphasized compassion during his 12-year papacy. The Catholic Church now faces the critical challenge of selecting a successor who can continue his vision of inclusivity and outreach.**
Mourning Pope Francis: A Legacy of Compassion and Dialogue**
Mourning Pope Francis: A Legacy of Compassion and Dialogue**
The world stands with heavy hearts as Pope Francis passes away at 88, leaving behind a transformative legacy focused on social justice, environmental issues, and inclusivity within the Catholic Church.**
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Current time in Vatican City: 7:21 p.m. April 21
Live updated: April 21, 2025, 2:20 p.m. ET
Latest Updates: World Pays Tribute to Pope Francis. Mourners, many in tears, filled St. Peter’s Square to honor the first Latin American pontiff. The Vatican announced that the pope died at age 88 after suffering a stroke.
Reporting from Rome, here’s more on the pope’s legacy and the challenges ahead. Pope Francis, who passed away on Monday, was recognized globally for his unwavering dedication to migrants and the marginalized. As the world mourns, leaders and Catholics continue to reflect on the lessons he embodied during his 12-year papacy.
Born from humble beginnings in Argentina, Francis sought to reshape the Church into a more inclusive entity. He devoted his pontificate to advocating for the less fortunate and addressing the Church's sexual abuse crisis. His unexpected death came just a day after he made a public appearance in a wheelchair to bless the faithful during Easter Mass. The Vatican shared the news in a poignant statement: “At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father,” an announcement made by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, who will act as the Vatican’s de facto administrator until a new pope is elected.
In the wake of the news, countless mourners gathered at St. Peter’s Square, many expressing deep shock and sadness. “[We saw him yesterday,]” remarked a grieving pilgrim, Marco Volpi, underscoring the unexpected nature of Francis' demise. While the Vatican has yet to announce a funeral date, it may arrange a public viewing as early as Wednesday.
Tributes have been abundant. World leaders have extended condolences and underscored Pope Francis’ commitment to marginalized individuals. Known for his efforts to address social justice, climate change, and the interconnected struggles of humanity, his passing creates a profound vacancy within the leadership of over one billion Catholics. Speculation surrounding potential successors has already begun, as deliberation ensues regarding the future direction of the Church.
As the Church gears up to select a new leader, many ponder whether the next pope will embody Francis’ inclusive approach or revert to a more traditional stance. Cardinal Mauro Gambetti led a rosary prayer service where hundreds gathered to remember the pontiff’s legacy. Many mourners expressed their sorrow, holding rosaries and exchanging fond memories of a leader who advocated for compassion and connection.
The coming days will reveal how deeply the principles of Pope Francis resonate within the Church, as leaders begin the crucial process of electing a successor.
Current time in Vatican City: 7:21 p.m. April 21
Live updated: April 21, 2025, 2:20 p.m. ET
Latest Updates: World Pays Tribute to Pope Francis. Mourners, many in tears, filled St. Peter’s Square to honor the first Latin American pontiff. The Vatican announced that the pope died at age 88 after suffering a stroke.
Reporting from Rome, here’s more on the pope’s legacy and the challenges ahead. Pope Francis, who passed away on Monday, was recognized globally for his unwavering dedication to migrants and the marginalized. As the world mourns, leaders and Catholics continue to reflect on the lessons he embodied during his 12-year papacy.
Born from humble beginnings in Argentina, Francis sought to reshape the Church into a more inclusive entity. He devoted his pontificate to advocating for the less fortunate and addressing the Church's sexual abuse crisis. His unexpected death came just a day after he made a public appearance in a wheelchair to bless the faithful during Easter Mass. The Vatican shared the news in a poignant statement: “At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father,” an announcement made by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, who will act as the Vatican’s de facto administrator until a new pope is elected.
In the wake of the news, countless mourners gathered at St. Peter’s Square, many expressing deep shock and sadness. “[We saw him yesterday,]” remarked a grieving pilgrim, Marco Volpi, underscoring the unexpected nature of Francis' demise. While the Vatican has yet to announce a funeral date, it may arrange a public viewing as early as Wednesday.
Tributes have been abundant. World leaders have extended condolences and underscored Pope Francis’ commitment to marginalized individuals. Known for his efforts to address social justice, climate change, and the interconnected struggles of humanity, his passing creates a profound vacancy within the leadership of over one billion Catholics. Speculation surrounding potential successors has already begun, as deliberation ensues regarding the future direction of the Church.
As the Church gears up to select a new leader, many ponder whether the next pope will embody Francis’ inclusive approach or revert to a more traditional stance. Cardinal Mauro Gambetti led a rosary prayer service where hundreds gathered to remember the pontiff’s legacy. Many mourners expressed their sorrow, holding rosaries and exchanging fond memories of a leader who advocated for compassion and connection.
The coming days will reveal how deeply the principles of Pope Francis resonate within the Church, as leaders begin the crucial process of electing a successor.
