This week, the world bid farewell to Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 88. Known for his humility, compassion, and focus on social justice, Pope Francis made history in many ways — as the first Latin American pope, the first Jesuit pope, and a global religious leader who embraced modern communication and dialogue.
His funeral will be held this Saturday, April 26, in the heart of the Vatican at St. Peter’s Square. For those who can’t attend in person, the service will be streamed live on YouTube by Vatican News, the official media channel of the Holy See. The livestream begins at 10 a.m. CET (4 a.m. ET) and will be available in multiple languages including English, Italian, Spanish, French, Portuguese, and German — making it accessible to millions around the globe.
A Global Farewell
Pope Francis’s funeral will be more than just a ceremonial farewell. It marks the beginning of an ancient Catholic tradition known as the Novemdiales — a nine-day period of mourning and prayers for the soul of the deceased pope. Each day, special Masses will be held in remembrance of Francis, reflecting both on his life and his enduring spiritual legacy.
St. Peter’s Square is expected to be filled with faithful pilgrims, world leaders, and dignitaries. Tens of thousands are expected to attend in person, while millions more will join virtually through the livestream.
A Life Dedicated to Service
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis was elected in 2013 and became the first pope from the Americas. His papacy was marked by a strong emphasis on humility, environmental responsibility, care for the poor, and dialogue with other faiths. He was a pope who truly tried to bring the Church closer to the people, often stepping outside traditional boundaries — both literally and figuratively.
Even in his final days, Pope Francis remained deeply connected to the public. On Easter Sunday, just a day before his passing, he surprised thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square by appearing in the popemobile. Smiling and waving, he offered blessings and hope, a moment that will now be remembered as one of his last public acts of love and leadership.
Cause of Death and Final Days
According to Vatican sources, Pope Francis suffered a stroke on Monday, April 21, which led to a coma and eventually caused heart failure. His passing came just after a period of convalescence. Despite his health struggles, his surprise appearance on Easter Sunday was a poignant reminder of his deep commitment to the faithful.
The news of his death triggered an outpouring of tributes and prayers from around the world. From Buenos Aires to Rome, from Manila to New York, Catholics and non-Catholics alike mourned the loss of a spiritual figure who stood for compassion, inclusivity, and peace.
What Comes Next: The Conclave
With the passing of a pope, the next steps follow a time-honored process laid out in Vatican tradition. In the coming weeks, a conclave — a secretive and sacred gathering — will take place in the Sistine Chapel. There, 135 cardinals from around the world will come together to elect the next leader of the Catholic Church.
This conclave is expected to begin between May 5 and May 10, roughly two to three weeks after the funeral. Until a new pope is chosen, the Church enters a time of sede vacante — meaning “the seat is vacant.”
The world will be watching closely to see who will follow in the footsteps of Pope Francis, and what direction the Church will take under new leadership.
Renewed Interest in Papal Dramas
Following the pope’s death, interest has surged in films and series that explore the mystery and drama of the Vatican. The 2024 movie “Conclave”, featuring big names like Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, Isabella Rossellini, and John Lithgow, has seen a major increase in streaming numbers.
Likewise, Netflix’s 2019 film “The Two Popes,” which offers a fictionalized look at the relationship between Pope Francis and his predecessor, Pope Benedict XVI, has returned to the spotlight as people seek to understand more about the man behind the papal white robes.
These films offer a unique lens into the inner workings of the Vatican and the enormous responsibility that comes with being the spiritual leader of over 1.3 billion Catholics worldwide.
Final Thoughts
Pope Francis’s legacy will live on in the hearts of those he touched with his words, his actions, and his genuine love for humanity. As the Church and the world prepare to say goodbye, Saturday’s funeral offers a chance to reflect on a remarkable life of faith, service, and leadership.
Whether you're tuning in online or lighting a candle in memory, this moment is a powerful reminder of the impact one person can have on the world. Pope Francis may be gone, but his message of kindness, humility, and unity will echo for generations to come.
