Pope Francis Dies at 88 After Stroke, Vatican Announces

Passing of Pope Francis

• 🕊️ Pope Francis, aged 88, passed away at 7:35 AM Rome time this morning.
• 💔 The Vatican announced that his death was caused by a stroke that led to a coma and subsequent heart failure.

Final Testament and Public Appearances

• 📜 In his final testament, Pope Francis expressed his wish to be buried at the St. Mary Major Basilica in Rome, deviating from the tradition of other popes buried at the Vatican.
• 😔 His last public appearance was on Easter Sunday, where he was seen in a wheelchair and appeared frail but still managed to bless the crowd and greet people from the Popemobile.

Upcoming Vatican Procedures

• 🤝 Cardinals are beginning to arrive in Rome for their first meeting, scheduled for tomorrow.
• 🗓️ The funeral is anticipated to take place by the end of the week, followed by nine days of mourning (novenialis).
• 🗳️ After the novenialis period, a date will be set for the conclave to elect the next Pope.