Pope Francis, who was 88 years old, died on Easter Monday, April 21, as a result of a cerebral stroke that caused a coma and subsequent heart failure. After a nine-day mourning period and the customary sede vacante, the College of Cardinals gathered in the Sistine Chapel for the papal conclave. Following multiple voting rounds, the appearance of white smoke signaled the election of a new pope, whose identity has only recently been verified by the Vatican.
In his last will, published on April 22, Pope Francis expressed his desire for a modest burial in the earth at the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major, close to the Pauline and Sforza Chapels. His grave is to feature solely the name ‘Franciscus.’ These final requests exemplify his humility and enduring commitment to the Virgin Mary. He dedicated his last moments of suffering to the cause of global peace and unity.
Pope Francis will be commemorated as a forward-thinking and modest leader, influenced by the teachings of St. Francis of Assisi.
