The news of Pope Francis’s death on Easter Monday shocked the world. “The Vatican shared the tragic news of the Pope’s untimely d3ath,” prompting hundreds of thousands to visit Rome during Easter.Though unwell from a long battle with double pneumonia, Pope Francis appeared on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica during Easter Sunday Mass, offering a blessing and a “Happy Easter” to the crowd. The Mass was led by Cardinal Angelo Comastri, as the Pope couldn’t preside himself.

Instead of his usual “Urbi et Orbi” address, a Vatican archbishop delivered it. The Pope’s message touched on global issues, including the crisis in Gaza and rising antisemitism, urging for peace through “religious freedom and tolerance for others’ opinions.”

At 88, Pope Francis had spent significant time in the hospital, including a recent month-long stay at Gemelli Hospital. He missed most Holy Week events for the first time since 2013, delegating duties to cardinals. Still, he briefly greeted guests on Saturday.Despite his declining health, Pope Francis remained a symbol of faith. He “left behind an outstanding and timeless legacy,” remembered as a man of honesty and devotion.