Vatican Reveals Shocking Details Surrounding Pope Francis' Sudden Death

In a world where change is the only constant, we’ve just witnessed a significant one—yes, Pope Francis, the shepherd with a sharp wit and the kind of progressive spirit that could outpace Silicon Valley startup culture, has left us at the tender age of 88. But oh, what a legacy he leaves behind! Imagine dedicating your entire life to not only serving the Lord but also ensuring His flock embraces inclusivity, champions environmental responsibility, and fights for social justice. Talk about multitasking better than a mom during the school run!

But let’s not get stuck in the mourning; let’s remember the vibrancy of his spirit, that Buenos Aires flair that made him as relatable as the guy you meet for coffee. He wasn’t just the Pope; he was the Pope, with a magnetic presence and a soothing voice that could make you laugh or cry, often at the same time. Remember how he called for the decriminalization of homosexuality? And how he didn’t just talk about climate change but made it a core part of his message—no less than a digital marketer would campaign for brand visibility!

As we gather our thoughts on this peaceful morning when Cardinal Kevin Ferrell told the world that Francis had “returned to the home of the Father,” let’s not forget the candles, the prayers, and the vigils that lit up St Peter’s Basilica and beyond. The well-wishers, those of us who felt his warmth, his battle with various health conditions, his resilience, it’s all part of his story—a story of faith, disease, resilience, and yes, recovery.

Who could step into his beloved shoes and continue his mission? With a conclave on the horizon, will it be Cardinal Pietro Parolin with his deep diplomatic ties, or perhaps Cardinal Peter Erdö, known for his theological acumen? Or maybe someone like Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, a nickname card-carrying “athlete” of mercy? The speculation’s hotter than a July day in Rome!

For now, as we bid adieu to a leader whose humility was as palpable as his influence, let’s raise a thought or prayer for him, and for the next shepherd who will guide the rock of the Church. <a href="

Pope Francis has died at the age of 88, the Vatican has confirmed.

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<p class="texttext_nEn66″>Announcing the news today (2

Pope Francis has died at the age of 88, the Vatican has confirmed.

Announcing the news today (21 April) camerlengo Cardinal Kevin Ferrell said: “At 7.35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father.”

Pope Francis had spent much of February at the Gemelli hospital in Rome after being admitted with pneumonia in both of his lungs and later struggling with acute respiratory failure.

He was later returned to The Vatican after being discharged from hospital on 23 March.

Vigils were held at St Peter’s Basilica as well as in towns and cities across Italy and abroad each night, while well-wishers also lit candles outside the Gemelli hospital, where he was first admitted on 14 February.

During his time in hospital, he was diagnosed with bronchitis and kidney issues, required blood transfusions and also a ventilator as he struggled to breathe.

The Pope has died aged 88 (Filippo MONTEFORTE / AFP)

“His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of his Church. He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with faithfulness, courage, and universal love, especially for the poorest and most marginalised,” the statement continued.

“With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite, merciful love of God, One and Tribune.”

The Buenos Aires-born Pope was elected at the age of 76 in 2013 to succeed Pope Benedict XVI, and took the name the Francis. He was born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on 17 December 1936.

Pope Francis fought for inclusivity, environmental stewardship, and social justice during his 12 years inside the Vatican, notably calling for the decriminalisation of homosexuality and raising awareness of climate change.

He had also struggled with various health conditions during his time at the Vatican, including a spell with pneumonia in March 2023 and a colon operation in 2021.

He had been admitted to hospital in February (JUAN MABROMATA/AFP via Getty Images)

Before his passing, the Pope thanked people across the world for their support in a statement made via the Vatican, saying: “I feel all your affection and closeness and, at this particular time, I feel as if I am ‘carried’ and supported by all God’s people. Thank you all.”

It is unclear at this point who will become the next bishop of Rome, with a voting process likely to last anywhere between 15 and 20 days, in what is known as a papal conclave.

The College of Cardinals will come together to elect the Church’s next head, voting four times per day until a candidate receives a major two-thirds of the vote.

Likely candidates include Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Cardinal Peter Erdö, Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, Cardinal Matteo Zuppi and Cardinal Raymond Leo Burke.