The heart of the world stops: Pope Francis has died
The world awoke today to heartbreaking news: Pope Francis has died. At 7:35 a.m., as announced by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Bishop of Rome “returned to the house of the Father.” With these words, the Vatican officially announced the passing of a man who embodied simplicity, mercy, and fraternity like few others in the history of the Catholic Church.
A papacy marked by humility and courage
From the very start, Pope Francis—born Jorge Mario Bergoglio—chose a name that symbolized the path he would take: a path of humility, service, and proximity to the marginalized. His leadership was defined by his calls for social justice, defense of the weak, and an unrelenting push for both ecological and spiritual conversion.
His words, always delivered with clarity and love, resonated deeply with the people. From migrants to climate change, from war-torn lands to Church reform, Francis was unafraid to walk difficult roads, even in the face of criticism.
Grief from the Church and global leaders
Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, president of the Italian Episcopal Conference, called this a moment of “great suffering for the Church,” urging all churches in Italy to ring their bells in mourning and encourage communal prayer. The Patriarch of Moscow also paid tribute, highlighting Pope Francis’ role in Catholic-Orthodox dialogue.
Around the globe, world leaders expressed their condolences. Roberta Metsola called him “the People’s Pope,” Ursula von der Leyen praised his humility, and Giorgia Meloni called him “a great man.” Zelensky remembered his prayers for peace in Ukraine, Donald Trump sent blessings, and Marco Rubio joined in prayer with Catholics around the world.
The people mourn, events suspended across Italy
Faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square were struck by disbelief. Just yesterday, many had seen him waving from the Popemobile. “He was one of us,” said a Spanish pilgrim with tears in his eyes.
In his memory, Italy’s football leagues suspended all matches, including Serie A, B, and C. Jubilee celebrations will continue in a more sober tone, while the canonizations of Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati have been postponed.
A life in service of humanity
The message from the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, who wept at the loss of his “brother,” speaks volumes. Francis’ commitment to interfaith relations, especially with the Muslim world, his denouncement of war, and his appeals for human dignity will remain etched in history.
Italian President Sergio Mattarella emphasized that Francis was a moral and spiritual anchor, whose message of peace and solidarity must now become a mission for us all.
The final farewell and a legacy that lives on
Tonight, in the Chapel of Santa Marta, the Rite of Verification of Death will take place, followed by the laying of the body in a casket, in accordance with Vatican protocol. On Wednesday, his body is expected to be transferred to St. Peter’s Basilica for public homage.
His final message still echoes: “Everything is revealed in mercy, everything is resolved in the merciful love of the Father.” That is how he spoke, and that is how we will remember him.
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