Pope Francis passed away on 21 April at the age of 88. Cardinal Kevin Ferrell confirmed: “At 7.35 this morning, the bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father.” He praised the Pope’s life as one devoted to “faithfulness, courage, and universal love, especially for the poorest and most marginalised.”

The day before his death, the Pope appeared on the balcony of St Peter’s Basilica to deliver his final Easter message. Due to illness, an aide read his words, where he called for “freedom of religion, freedom of thought, freedom of expression” and peace in conflict zones.

He condemned the violence in Gaza and Ukraine, noting “the deplorable humanitarian situation” and “a great thirst for death” seen in global conflicts. He urged world leaders to “call a ceasefire, release the hostages and come to the aid of a starving people.”

Before his passing, Pope Francis had spent 38 days in Rome’s Gemelli Hospital battling double pneumonia and kidney issues.
A nine-day mourning period will follow, after which the College of Cardinals will meet in a papal conclave to elect the next Pope. Out of 252 cardinals, 138 are eligible to vote.