VATICAN CITY: Catholic Church leader Pope Francis passed away on Monday at the age of 88, with his funeral scheduled to take place on April 26 at the Vatican. The Holy See confirmed his death and released the first image of his body, placed in a coffin surrounded by religious leaders offering prayers.
According to the Vatican, Pope Francis breathed his last at 7:35 AM local time. He reportedly suffered a stroke and heart failure, leading to cerebral haemorrhage. Italian media corroborated that a brain stroke had caused internal bleeding in his brain.
Preparations for the funeral began today, with Catholic cardinals arriving at the Vatican to participate in the solemn proceedings. A large gathering of world leaders, clergy, and the faithful is expected for the final rites.
The Pope’s body is currently lying in repose in a coffin for public viewing, accompanied by continuous prayers from the clergy and religious followers.
In what would be his final public gesture, Pope Francis had issued an Easter Sunday message just a day before his passing. In a moment of silence and reflection, he extended blessings and called for peace in conflict-hit regions, including Gaza.
India has declared a three-day national mourning in honour of the Pope. The Ministry of Home Affairs announced that the country will observe mourning on April 22 and 23, with the final day coinciding with the Pope’s funeral on April 26.
The passing of Pope Francis marks the end of a deeply influential papacy, remembered for its emphasis on compassion, interfaith dialogue, and advocacy for global peace and human dignity.
