The Death of Pope Francis: Facts and Curiosities

On April 21, 2025, Pope Francis passed away at the age of 88 following a stroke, marking the end of a 12-year pontificate. His death initiated a series of traditional rituals, some of which he had personally asked to be simplified.

🕯️ The Rituals After a Pope’s Death

1. Confirmation of Death

The Pope’s death was officially confirmed by the Camerlengo, the cardinal who administers the Vatican during the “sede vacante” (vacant seat).
The body was dressed in simple red liturgical garments and placed in his private chapel for the first vigil.

2. Public Viewing

Later, the body was moved in a solemn procession to St. Peter’s Basilica, where it lay in state for three days.
During this time, over 250,000 faithful came to pay their respects.
(Source: People)

3. Funeral and Burial

The funeral took place on April 26, 2025, in St. Peter’s Square, presided over by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re.
More than 200,000 people attended the ceremony, including world leaders such as former U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
(Source: Financial Times)

In line with his wish for simplicity, Pope Francis was buried in a plain wooden coffin containing symbolic items like Vatican coins minted during his papacy and a scroll summarizing his life.
(Source: People)

Notably, Pope Francis chose to be buried in Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, one of his favorite churches in Rome, making him the first pope in over a century to be buried outside the Vatican Walls.
(Source: Financial Times)

🕊️ Legacy and Succession

Pope Francis’s pontificate was marked by a focus on compassion, inclusivity, care for the poor, and environmental advocacy.
He consistently challenged traditional norms, promoting a humbler, people-centered Church.

Now, with the papal seat vacant, the College of Cardinals will convene to elect a new pope.
Likely candidates include Cardinals Pietro Parolin, Luis Tagle, and Fridolin Ambongo Besungu.
(Source: Financial Times)

🌍 Worldwide Reactions

The passing of Pope Francis sparked mourning across the globe.
In Ireland, An Post (the national postal service) offered a free service for sending condolences to the Vatican, allowing citizens to express their grief.
(Source: The Sun IE)

Pope Francis’s death marks not only the end of an era but also a profound moment of reflection on the future direction of the Catholic Church.