Pope Francis died at the age of 88. His funeral started on Saturday (1:30 IST).&nbsp;The funeral service is being led by the dean of the College of Cardinals, Giovanni Battista Re.&nbsp;He was born in Italy's Brescia. The 91-year-old has spent five decades serving in the Roman curia after he was ordained in 1957.&nbsp;He was claimed as a cardinal in 2001 by Pope John Paul II.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-funeral-live-updates-from-st-mary-major-basilica-vatican-city-check-who-will-attend-date-time-news-9003593">Pope Francis Funeral Live: Funeral underway at St Peter's Square; world leaders gather to bid final farewell</a>
In January this year, he became the dean of the College of Cardinals. It is the most senior figures of the Catholic Church. The person at this post decides the next pope in a highly secretive ritual known as the conclave. But, as per the reports, he won&rsquo;t participate in the upcoming conclave as cardinals over the age of 80 are excluded from voting.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-says-trump-zelensky-had-very-productive-meeting-at-popes-funeral-9004156">White House says Trump, Zelensky had 'very productive' meeting at pope's funeral</a>
As many as 200,000 people attended the funeral of Pope Francis on Saturday (April 26), as per the Vatican said. Italian police had earlier put the number at around 150,000, with roughly 50,000 people filling St Peter's Square.
<h2>Clapping at Pope's funeral&nbsp;</h2>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-avoiding-confrontation-with-trump-ukrainian-president-says-may-not-attend-pope-francis-funeral-9003421">Zelensky avoiding confrontation with Trump? Ukrainian President says may not attend Pope's funeral</a>
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky received a round of applause when he entred the venue to attend Pope Francis' funeral on Saturday (April 26) in Rome.&nbsp;&nbsp;
As per the images and videos circulated on the social media,&nbsp;as&nbsp;Zelensky&nbsp;emerged from St Peter&rsquo;s Basilica to take up his place, there was a spontaneous round of applause from the crowds in the piazza.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/real-madrid-boycott-copa-del-rey-final-build-up-amid-unacceptable-referee-statements-barcelona-el-classico-9004376">Real Madrid boycott Copa del Rey final build-up amid 'unacceptable' referee statements</a>
While others were seen praising the president of the war-torn nation, others were seen criticising him for not wearing a suit, again.&nbsp;

Trending |  World | Pope Francis died at the age of 88. His funeral started on Saturday (1:30 IST). The funeral service is being led by the dean of the College of Cardinals, Giovanni Battista Re.

Pope Francis died at the age of 88. His funeral started on Saturday (1:30 IST). The funeral service is being led by the dean of the College of Cardinals, Giovanni Battista Re. He was born in Italy's Brescia. The 91-year-old has spent five decades serving in the Roman curia after he was ordained in 1957. He was claimed as a cardinal in 2001 by Pope John Paul II. Also read: Pope Francis Funeral Live: Funeral underway at St Peter's Square; world leaders gather to bid final farewell In January this year, he became the dean of the College of Cardinals. It is the most senior figures of the Catholic Church. The person at this post decides the next pope in a highly secretive ritual known as the conclave. But, as per the reports, he won’t participate in the upcoming conclave as cardinals over the age of 80 are excluded from voting. Also read: White House says Trump, Zelensky had 'very productive' meeting at pope's funeral As many as 200,000 people attended the funeral of Pope Francis on Saturday (April 26), as per the Vatican said. Italian police had earlier put the number at around 150,000, with roughly 50,000 people filling St Peter's Square. Clapping at Pope's funeral Also read: Zelensky avoiding confrontation with Trump? Ukrainian President says may not attend Pope's funeral Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky received a round of applause when he entred the venue to attend Pope Francis' funeral on Saturday (April 26) in Rome. As per the images and videos circulated on the social media, as Zelensky emerged from St Peter’s Basilica to take up his place, there was a spontaneous round of applause from the crowds in the piazza. Also read: Real Madrid boycott Copa del Rey final build-up amid 'unacceptable' referee statements While others were seen praising the president of the war-torn nation, others were seen criticising him for not wearing a suit, again.

Meet the man leading Pope Francis' funeral service

In death, as in life, Pope Francis chose humility. The late pontiff's final resting place inside Rome&rsquo;s Basilica of St. Mary Major is marked by a simple tomb of Ligurian slate &mdash; grey and unadorned, bearing only his name, Franciscus, and a replica of his pectoral cross. No elaborate carvings, no Latin epitaphs. Just stone, silence, and a stone that echos with the sound of his family roots.
As per Cardinal Rolandas Makrickas, based on the late Pope's personal request, his tomb has been built from "stone of Liguria, the land of his grandparents".
<h2>Pope Francis' tomb</h2>
As per the Vatican News, stone for the Pope's tomb has been imported from the hills of northern Italy.
The tomb lies tucked between the Pauline and Sforza chapels, near the Altar of St. Francis &mdash; a quiet corner of the basilica.
It was the Pope's personal request that his tomb be built from the rock of Cogorno, the Ligurian village where his great-grandfather Vincenzo Sivori once lived before setting sail for Argentina in the 1800s. That journey became the basis of Jorge Mario Bergoglio, aka Pope Francis' story.
As per the report, though his public life was global, Pope Francis kept his Ligurian roots largely private. Even the Mayor of Cogorno, Enrica Sommariva, admitted surprise upon learning that the had chosen stone from their hills for his tomb.&nbsp;
<h2>The "people's stone"</h2>
The slate used in the tomb comes from a district of 18 quarries nestled in the Ligurian hills. Franca Garbaino, head of the Slate District, called it "not a noble stone," but "the people's stone" &mdash; one that "gives warmth."&nbsp;
In the end, Pope Francis &mdash; the first Jesuit Pope, the first from the Americas &mdash; chose not marble or bronze, but Ligurian slate. It is how he wanted to be remembered: not with grandeur, but with grace.

Trending | World | Discover Pope Francis' humble final resting place, marked by Ligurian slate from his ancestral home. Learn how his roots influenced this simple yet profound choice.

In death, as in life, Pope Francis chose humility. The late pontiff's final resting place inside Rome’s Basilica of St. Mary Major is marked by a simple tomb of Ligurian slate — grey and unadorned, bearing only his name, Franciscus, and a replica of his pectoral cross. No elaborate carvings, no Latin epitaphs. Just stone, silence, and a stone that echos with the sound of his family roots. As per Cardinal Rolandas Makrickas, based on the late Pope's personal request, his tomb has been built from "stone of Liguria, the land of his grandparents". Pope Francis' tomb As per the Vatican News, stone for the Pope's tomb has been imported from the hills of northern Italy. The tomb lies tucked between the Pauline and Sforza chapels, near the Altar of St. Francis — a quiet corner of the basilica. It was the Pope's personal request that his tomb be built from the rock of Cogorno, the Ligurian village where his great-grandfather Vincenzo Sivori once lived before setting sail for Argentina in the 1800s. That journey became the basis of Jorge Mario Bergoglio, aka Pope Francis' story. As per the report, though his public life was global, Pope Francis kept his Ligurian roots largely private. Even the Mayor of Cogorno, Enrica Sommariva, admitted surprise upon learning that the had chosen stone from their hills for his tomb. The "people's stone" The slate used in the tomb comes from a district of 18 quarries nestled in the Ligurian hills. Franca Garbaino, head of the Slate District, called it "not a noble stone," but "the people's stone" — one that "gives warmth." In the end, Pope Francis — the first Jesuit Pope, the first from the Americas — chose not marble or bronze, but Ligurian slate. It is how he wanted to be remembered: not with grandeur, but with grace.

Pope Francis to be laid to rest in stone from 'the land of his grandparents'

Pope Francis, the head of the worldwide Catholic Church, will be laid to rest on Saturday (Apr 26) in Rome. Pope Francis passed away on April 21, aged 88. He died of a stroke and irreversible heart failure, less than a month after returning home from five weeks in hospital battling double pneumonia.
Pope Francis' funeral will take place at 10:00 am (0800 GMT) on Saturday in the square in front of St Peter's Basilica at the Vatican.&nbsp;His body will be placed in a wooden coffin before the funeral and then placed in two other coffins that fit inside one another, each made of different types of wood, at his burial site.
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-mocked-biden-for-seating-arrangement-at-queens-farewell-will-he-be-upset-with-his-seat-at-popes-funeral-9001681">Trump mocked Biden for seating arrangement at Queen's farewell: Will he be upset with his seat at Pope's funeral?</a>
<h2>The schedule for the funeral is as follows:</h2>
<ul>
<li>07:45 GMT - 11:00 GMT: Pope Francis&rsquo; funeral mass and ceremonies in St. Peter's Basilica and Square.</li>
<li>10:00 GMT onwards: Pope Francis's casket transported for burial at St. Mary Major Basilica.</li>
<li>12:00 GMT: Mass at Buenos Aires Cathedral and march around Plaza de Mayo.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Where will Pope Francis be buried?</h2>
The Vatican announced that at least 130 foreign delegations had confirmed their attendance for the event, including 50 heads of state and 10 monarchs. After the funeral mass on Saturday, Pope Francis will be buried outside the Vatican in St. Mary Major, a basilica in Rome. He will be the first pope in more than five centuries to be buried there.
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-cardinal-accused-of-covering-up-sexual-abuse-cases-will-close-pope-francis-coffin-9000845">US Cardinal accused of covering up sexual abuse cases will close Pope Francis&rsquo; coffin</a>
<h2>List of leaders attending the Pope's funeral</h2>
<ul>
<li>United States President Donald Trump </li>
<li>Indian President Droupadi Murmu </li>
<li>Prince William&nbsp; </li>
<li>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky </li>
<li>UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer </li>
<li>Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos&nbsp; </li>
<li>Argentina President Javier Milei </li>
<li>Brazil President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva&nbsp; </li>
<li>UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres </li>
<li>French President Emmanuel Macron </li>
<li>German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier &nbsp; </li>
<li>German Chancellor Olaf Scholz </li>
<li>Hungary President Tamas Sulyok&nbsp; </li>
<li>Hungary Prime Minister Viktor Orban </li>
</ul>
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/justkilled-dapope-vance-jd-vance-calls-meeting-pope-francis-before-his-death-pretty-crazy-internet-agrees-9000099">'Justkilled DaPope Vance': JD Vance calls meeting Pope Francis before his death 'pretty crazy' &mdash; internet agrees</a>
<h2>How will new Pope be elected?</h2>
<div class="article__body">
<div class="article__section article__section_type_text utility__text">
After the funeral, there are nine days of official mourning, known as the &ldquo;novendiali.&rdquo; During this period, the world's 252 cardinals will arrive in Rome. Of the 252, only 138 under the age of 80 are eligible to vote in the conclave. The cardinals will vote in secret sessions, and the ballots will be burned in a special stove after each session. Black smoke will indicate that no pope has been elected, while white smoke will indicate that the cardinals have chosen the next head of the Catholic Church.
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-president-murmu-pays-homage-to-pope-francis-to-attend-funeral-tomorrow-9002589">India's President Murmu pays homage to Pope Francis, to attend funeral tomorrow</a>
</div>
</div>

Pope Francis, the head of the worldwide Catholic Church, will be laid to rest on Saturday (Apr 26) in Rome. Here's everything to know about his funeral

Pope Francis, the head of the worldwide Catholic Church, will be laid to rest on Saturday (Apr 26) in Rome. Pope Francis passed away on April 21, aged 88. He died of a stroke and irreversible heart failure, less than a month after returning home from five weeks in hospital battling double pneumonia. Pope Francis' funeral will take place at 10:00 am (0800 GMT) on Saturday in the square in front of St Peter's Basilica at the Vatican. His body will be placed in a wooden coffin before the funeral and then placed in two other coffins that fit inside one another, each made of different types of wood, at his burial site. Read More | Trump mocked Biden for seating arrangement at Queen's farewell: Will he be upset with his seat at Pope's funeral? The schedule for the funeral is as follows: 07:45 GMT - 11:00 GMT: Pope Francis’ funeral mass and ceremonies in St. Peter's Basilica and Square. 10:00 GMT onwards: Pope Francis's casket transported for burial at St. Mary Major Basilica. 12:00 GMT: Mass at Buenos Aires Cathedral and march around Plaza de Mayo. Where will Pope Francis be buried? The Vatican announced that at least 130 foreign delegations had confirmed their attendance for the event, including 50 heads of state and 10 monarchs. After the funeral mass on Saturday, Pope Francis will be buried outside the Vatican in St. Mary Major, a basilica in Rome. He will be the first pope in more than five centuries to be buried there. Read More | US Cardinal accused of covering up sexual abuse cases will close Pope Francis’ coffin List of leaders attending the Pope's funeral United States President Donald Trump Indian President Droupadi Murmu Prince William Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Argentina President Javier Milei Brazil President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres French President Emmanuel Macron German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier German Chancellor Olaf Scholz Hungary President Tamas Sulyok Hungary Prime Minister Viktor Orban Read More | 'Justkilled DaPope Vance': JD Vance calls meeting Pope Francis before his death 'pretty crazy' — internet agrees How will new Pope be elected? After the funeral, there are nine days of official mourning, known as the “novendiali.” During this period, the world's 252 cardinals will arrive in Rome. Of the 252, only 138 under the age of 80 are eligible to vote in the conclave. The cardinals will vote in secret sessions, and the ballots will be burned in a special stove after each session. Black smoke will indicate that no pope has been elected, while white smoke will indicate that the cardinals have chosen the next head of the Catholic Church. Read More | India's President Murmu pays homage to Pope Francis, to attend funeral tomorrow

Pope Francis' final journey: World leaders to bid farewell to 'pope of the slums' | Venue, burial details here

President Droupadi Murmu on Friday paid homage to Pope Francis at the Basilica of St Peter here.
Francis, who was the first non-European Pope in nearly 1,300 years, died on Monday. He was 88.
His funeral will be held on Saturday.
&ldquo;President Droupadi Murmu paid homage to His Holiness Pope Francis at Basilica of St Peter in Vatican City," her office said in a post on X.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
President Droupadi Murmu paid homage to His Holiness Pope Francis at Basilica of Saint Peter in Vatican City. <a href="https://t.co/eymWVVZi4J">pic.twitter.com/eymWVVZi4J</a>
&mdash; President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn/status/1915801170355847339?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2025</a></blockquote>
Murmu is accompanied by Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs, Kiren Rijiju; Minister of State for Minority Affairs and Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, George Kurian; and Deputy Speaker of Goa Legislative Assembly, Joshua De Souza.
Murmu, who reached here earlier in the day, is on a two-day visit to the Vatican City beginning Friday and will offer condolences on behalf of the government and the people of India.
&ldquo;On April 26, the president will attend the funeral Mass of His Holiness Pope Francis at St Peter&rsquo;s Square in Vatican City, which will be attended by dignitaries from around the world," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/justkilled-dapope-vance-jd-vance-calls-meeting-pope-francis-before-his-death-pretty-crazy-internet-agrees-9000099">'Justkilled DaPope Vance': JD Vance calls meeting Pope Francis before his death 'pretty crazy' &mdash; internet agrees</a>
India had declared a three-day state mourning on the passing of Pope Francis.
Media reports quoted the Vatican as saying that about 164 delegations are confirmed for Francis&rsquo; funeral. These include 54 heads of state and 12 reigning sovereigns.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

“President Droupadi Murmu paid homage to His Holiness Pope Francis at Basilica of St Peter in Vatican City," her office said in a post on X. India news World

President Droupadi Murmu on Friday paid homage to Pope Francis at the Basilica of St Peter here. Francis, who was the first non-European Pope in nearly 1,300 years, died on Monday. He was 88. His funeral will be held on Saturday. “President Droupadi Murmu paid homage to His Holiness Pope Francis at Basilica of St Peter in Vatican City," her office said in a post on X. President Droupadi Murmu paid homage to His Holiness Pope Francis at Basilica of Saint Peter in Vatican City. pic.twitter.com/eymWVVZi4J — President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) April 25, 2025 Murmu is accompanied by Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs, Kiren Rijiju; Minister of State for Minority Affairs and Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, George Kurian; and Deputy Speaker of Goa Legislative Assembly, Joshua De Souza. Murmu, who reached here earlier in the day, is on a two-day visit to the Vatican City beginning Friday and will offer condolences on behalf of the government and the people of India. “On April 26, the president will attend the funeral Mass of His Holiness Pope Francis at St Peter’s Square in Vatican City, which will be attended by dignitaries from around the world," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement. Also read: 'Justkilled DaPope Vance': JD Vance calls meeting Pope Francis before his death 'pretty crazy' — internet agrees India had declared a three-day state mourning on the passing of Pope Francis. Media reports quoted the Vatican as saying that about 164 delegations are confirmed for Francis’ funeral. These include 54 heads of state and 12 reigning sovereigns. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India's President Murmu pays homage to Pope Francis, to attend funeral tomorrow

#GRAVITAS| On April 21,the internet was quickly set ablaze with illegal betting operators cashing in on the speculation on who will succeed him. Such is the interest that the betting activity is even overtaking the hugely popular F.A. Cup. Watch this video to find out more.

Polymarket sparks global buzz on Pope Francis' successor

A controversy has broken out over US President Donald Trump's seating arrangement at Pope Francis' funeral mass, that will be held on Saturday. Pope Francis passed away on April 21, aged 88.&nbsp;
As per a report on DailyMail, Trump is expected to get a 'third-tier seat' despite being among the first to confirm that he would be attending the service. Trump would miss the front row because as per precedence front row would be given to Catholic royalty. Reports also suggest that the seating arrangement is not in order of importance but according to alphabetical order &mdash; in French. Thus, the US President may have to sit between African leaders and near French President Emmanuel Macron. Reports say that the arrangement as per Italian alphabetical order would have seen Trump and Ukrainian President Vlodymyr Zelenskyy sitting uncomfortably close together.
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/justkilled-dapope-vance-jd-vance-calls-meeting-pope-francis-before-his-death-pretty-crazy-internet-agrees-9000099">'Justkilled DaPope Vance': JD Vance calls meeting Pope Francis before his death 'pretty crazy' &mdash; internet agrees</a>
Catholic royals will be seated in the front row, followed by non-Catholic royals, including Prince William. World leaders, heads of states and other foreign dignitaries will sit behind them.
It is noteworthy to recall that Trump had mocked his predecessor Joe Biden for being seated at the rear at Queen Elizabeth II's funeral three years ago. He said that Biden's 14th row seat showed there was 'no respect' for the US anymore and alleged that if he was president he would have been moved closer to the front. It remains to be seen if Trump is displeased or irked by the seating arrangement.&nbsp;
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vatican-releases-photos-of-pope-francis-in-open-coffin-8988829">Vatican releases photos of Pope Francis in open coffin; funeral to take place on Saturday</a>
Many foreign leaders and at least 130 foreign delegations will attend Saturday's ceremony, including Indian President Droupadi Murmu. Th Indian delegation also includes Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Kiren Rijiju, Union Minister of State George Kurian and Goa's Deputy Speaker Joshua Peter De Souza. They&nbsp;have departed for Vatican City this morning.
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-a-rotten-age-mourners-take-smiling-selfies-with-pope-francis-body-in-casket-triggers-outrage-8999027">'What a rotten age': Mourners take smiling selfies with Pope Francis' body in casket, triggers outrage</a>
<h2>How will new Pope be elected?</h2>
<div class="article__body">
<div class="article__section article__section_type_text utility__text">
After the funeral, there are nine days of official mourning, known as the &ldquo;novendiali.&rdquo; During this period, cardinals arrive in Rome to participate in a conclave to elect the next pope.The cardinals will vote in secret sessions, and the ballots will be burned in a special stove after each session.&nbsp;Black smoke will indicate that no pope has been elected, while white smoke will indicate that the cardinals have chosen the next head of the Catholic Church.
</div>
</div>
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-cardinal-accused-of-covering-up-sexual-abuse-cases-will-close-pope-francis-coffin-9000845">US Cardinal accused of covering up sexual abuse cases will close Pope Francis&rsquo; coffin</a>
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/2404_POPE_830PM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2404_POPE_830PM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=84&amp;tags=pope francis, funeral, vatican" title="170 foreign delegations along with 200,000 visitors expected to attend Pope's funeral " id="PL_iframe_block-m9ws5dvg-gt1u9ef9-owga58cn"></iframe>

World | A controversy has broken out over US President Donald Trump's seating arrangement at Pope Francis' funeral mass, that will be held on Saturday

A controversy has broken out over US President Donald Trump's seating arrangement at Pope Francis' funeral mass, that will be held on Saturday. Pope Francis passed away on April 21, aged 88. As per a report on DailyMail, Trump is expected to get a 'third-tier seat' despite being among the first to confirm that he would be attending the service. Trump would miss the front row because as per precedence front row would be given to Catholic royalty. Reports also suggest that the seating arrangement is not in order of importance but according to alphabetical order — in French. Thus, the US President may have to sit between African leaders and near French President Emmanuel Macron. Reports say that the arrangement as per Italian alphabetical order would have seen Trump and Ukrainian President Vlodymyr Zelenskyy sitting uncomfortably close together. Read More | 'Justkilled DaPope Vance': JD Vance calls meeting Pope Francis before his death 'pretty crazy' — internet agrees Catholic royals will be seated in the front row, followed by non-Catholic royals, including Prince William. World leaders, heads of states and other foreign dignitaries will sit behind them. It is noteworthy to recall that Trump had mocked his predecessor Joe Biden for being seated at the rear at Queen Elizabeth II's funeral three years ago. He said that Biden's 14th row seat showed there was 'no respect' for the US anymore and alleged that if he was president he would have been moved closer to the front. It remains to be seen if Trump is displeased or irked by the seating arrangement. Read More | Vatican releases photos of Pope Francis in open coffin; funeral to take place on Saturday Many foreign leaders and at least 130 foreign delegations will attend Saturday's ceremony, including Indian President Droupadi Murmu. Th Indian delegation also includes Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Kiren Rijiju, Union Minister of State George Kurian and Goa's Deputy Speaker Joshua Peter De Souza. They have departed for Vatican City this morning. Read More | 'What a rotten age': Mourners take smiling selfies with Pope Francis' body in casket, triggers outrage How will new Pope be elected? After the funeral, there are nine days of official mourning, known as the “novendiali.” During this period, cardinals arrive in Rome to participate in a conclave to elect the next pope.The cardinals will vote in secret sessions, and the ballots will be burned in a special stove after each session. Black smoke will indicate that no pope has been elected, while white smoke will indicate that the cardinals have chosen the next head of the Catholic Church. Read More | US Cardinal accused of covering up sexual abuse cases will close Pope Francis’ coffin

Trump mocked Biden for seating arrangement at Queen's farewell: Will he be upset with his seat at Pope's funeral?

India's President to Attend Pope's Funeral Mass: A Tribute to the Spiritual Leader. Over 50,000 people have paid their respects to Pope Francis since April 21. The Pope passed away at the age of 88 due to a stroke.

Over 50,000 people paid homage to Pope Francis since April 21

US Cardinal accused in a sexual abuse case will play a key role in the ceremonies to close Pope Francis' coffin on his burial day on Saturday. Cardinal Roger Mahony, the retired Archbishop of Los Angeles, is accused of allegedly shielding several accused priests in 1980s. He is among nine cardinals who will take part in the burial ceremony of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-is-pope-election-such-a-secretive-affair-the-reason-can-be-traced-to-the-13th-century-8994542" rel="dofollow">Pope</a> at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. Pope Francis passed away on April 21, aged 88. His funeral will take place on Saturday.
A spokesman for the Holy See said that Mahony was involved because he was the most senior cardinal priest available to take part in the ceremonies. However, the advocates for sexual abuse victims have slammed the inclusion of Roger Mahony in the ceremony. Mahony led the Los Angeles archdiocese from 1985 to 2011.
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-bandh-today-how-indias-national-capital-is-protesting-against-pahalgam-attack-know-whats-open-and-closed-9000938">Delhi bandh today: How India's national capital is protesting against Pahalgam attack? Know what's open and closed</a>
<h2>What is Mahony accused of?</h2>
In 2013, the release of the Church files in connection with a lawsuit claimed that Mahony failed to remove clerks accused of sexual abuse. Moreover, he and another official allegedly shielded several accused priests and sent them for treatment to psychiatrists known to be friendly to the church. Mahony apologised after the release of the files "for my own failure to protect fully the children and youth entrusted into my care." He had called the abuse "a terrible sin and crime."
The Los Angeles archdiocese reached a $660 million civil settlement in 2007 with more than 500 victims of child molestation. Last year, another $880 million as a settlement was paid to 1,353 victims in cases going back decades.&nbsp;
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistanis-must-leave-india-what-will-happen-now-to-indian-women-married-to-pakistani-men-9000961">Pakistanis MUST leave India: What will now happen to Indian women married to Pakistani men?</a>
Anne Barrett Doyle of the group Bishop Accountability, which has tracked Catholic clergy abuse for decades, told Reuters, "Shame on him for participating in the public rites for Pope Francis, and shame on the College of Cardinals for allowing him to do so."&nbsp;
Meanwhile, the Archdiocese of Los Angeles described Mahony&rsquo;s official role in the ceremonies as a blessing in a statement to CNN.
&ldquo;Cardinal Mahony is our Archbishop Emeritus. He retired in 2011 as Archbishop of Angeles and has continued his ministry in our Archdiocese as a retired archbishop. He has always been in good standing,&rdquo; the archdiocese said.&nbsp;
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/space/india-pak-standoff-how-isro-strengthens-national-security-through-space-capabilities-9000803">India-Pak standoff: How ISRO strengthens national security through space capabilities</a>

World | US Cardinal accused in a sexual abuse case will play a key role in the ceremonies to close Pope Francis' coffin on his burial day on Saturday

US Cardinal accused in a sexual abuse case will play a key role in the ceremonies to close Pope Francis' coffin on his burial day on Saturday. Cardinal Roger Mahony, the retired Archbishop of Los Angeles, is accused of allegedly shielding several accused priests in 1980s. He is among nine cardinals who will take part in the burial ceremony of the Pope at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. Pope Francis passed away on April 21, aged 88. His funeral will take place on Saturday. A spokesman for the Holy See said that Mahony was involved because he was the most senior cardinal priest available to take part in the ceremonies. However, the advocates for sexual abuse victims have slammed the inclusion of Roger Mahony in the ceremony. Mahony led the Los Angeles archdiocese from 1985 to 2011. Read More | Delhi bandh today: How India's national capital is protesting against Pahalgam attack? Know what's open and closed What is Mahony accused of? In 2013, the release of the Church files in connection with a lawsuit claimed that Mahony failed to remove clerks accused of sexual abuse. Moreover, he and another official allegedly shielded several accused priests and sent them for treatment to psychiatrists known to be friendly to the church. Mahony apologised after the release of the files "for my own failure to protect fully the children and youth entrusted into my care." He had called the abuse "a terrible sin and crime." The Los Angeles archdiocese reached a $660 million civil settlement in 2007 with more than 500 victims of child molestation. Last year, another $880 million as a settlement was paid to 1,353 victims in cases going back decades. Read More | Pakistanis MUST leave India: What will now happen to Indian women married to Pakistani men? Anne Barrett Doyle of the group Bishop Accountability, which has tracked Catholic clergy abuse for decades, told Reuters, "Shame on him for participating in the public rites for Pope Francis, and shame on the College of Cardinals for allowing him to do so." Meanwhile, the Archdiocese of Los Angeles described Mahony’s official role in the ceremonies as a blessing in a statement to CNN. “Cardinal Mahony is our Archbishop Emeritus. He retired in 2011 as Archbishop of Angeles and has continued his ministry in our Archdiocese as a retired archbishop. He has always been in good standing,” the archdiocese said. Read More | India-Pak standoff: How ISRO strengthens national security through space capabilities

US Cardinal accused of covering up sexual abuse cases will close Pope Francis’ coffin

Mourners paying their final respects to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/pope">Pope</a>&nbsp;Francis have been disturbed by people taking selfies beside his body in his open casket, some even posting smiling photos online.&nbsp;
This triggered a massive backlash on social media, while people call it, "very distasteful."
Tens of thousands of people flocked to St Peter&rsquo;s Basilica in Vatican City to see the first Latin American pope.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-is-pope-election-such-a-secretive-affair-the-reason-can-be-traced-to-the-13th-century-8994542">Why is Pope's election such a secretive affair? The reason can be traced to a 13th-century incident</a>
While some looked sad in the photos, others posted smiling selfies with Pope lying lifelessly in a coffin just a feet away.&nbsp;
"Fury at &lsquo;disrespectful&rsquo; mourners taking selfies with the pope&rsquo;s corpse as the faithful line up to pay their respects," one Instagram user wrote.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Latest social media trend is to get a selfie with the dead Pope <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/maincharacter?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#maincharacter</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/entitled?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#entitled</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/accountability?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#accountability</a> <a href="https://t.co/rf2LM4T8V0">pic.twitter.com/rf2LM4T8V0</a>
&mdash; Im The Main Character (@MainCharacterDD) <a href="https://twitter.com/MainCharacterDD/status/1915441188078764325?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&ldquo;People were being asked to put their selfie sticks away when they got to the front,&rdquo; UK tourist Martin Gilsenan told the Mirror.
His wife said that they were surprised by people clicking pictures without being stopped and found it "very distasteful".
&ldquo;There were also many people looking around and getting upset with those on the phones,&rdquo; he said, with images showing others crowding around taking pics, despite being told not to.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/just-franciscus-pope-francis-final-wish-reveals-how-his-burial-will-take-place-8991114">&lsquo;Just Franciscus&rsquo;: Pope Francis&rsquo; final wish reveals how his burial will take place</a>
One of the users posted on X, saying, "What a rotten age, when people no longer know how to behave, even in front of a deceased person..."
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Des gens font un selfie devant le corps du pape, expos&eacute; dans la basilique Saint-Pierre de Rome. Quelle &eacute;poque pourrie dans laquelle les gens ne savent plus se tenir, m&ecirc;me devant un d&eacute;funt...<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PapaFrancesco?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PapaFrancesco</a> <a href="https://t.co/cSk0ZU2Sou">pic.twitter.com/cSk0ZU2Sou</a>
&mdash; Tanguy David (@tanguy_france) <a href="https://twitter.com/tanguy_france/status/1915465765329002577?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Another person said that she was surprised by the fact that people were getting their phones out and taking selfies with the coffin.&nbsp;
&ldquo;What did surprise me is the fact that earlier we were told no photos in the Sistine Chapel and here people were getting their phone out and doing selfies with the coffin,&rdquo; Janine Venables, of Wales, told the Daily Mail.
WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mourners-pay-respects-to-pope-francis-in-st-peters-basilica-8995652">Mourners Pay Respects To Pope Francis In St. Peter's Basilica</a>
&nbsp;

"Fury at ‘disrespectful’ mourners taking selfies with the pope’s corpse as the faithful line up to pay their respects," one Instagram user wrote. WORLD

Mourners paying their final respects to Pope Francis have been disturbed by people taking selfies beside his body in his open casket, some even posting smiling photos online. This triggered a massive backlash on social media, while people call it, "very distasteful." Tens of thousands of people flocked to St Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City to see the first Latin American pope. Also read: Why is Pope's election such a secretive affair? The reason can be traced to a 13th-century incident While some looked sad in the photos, others posted smiling selfies with Pope lying lifelessly in a coffin just a feet away. "Fury at ‘disrespectful’ mourners taking selfies with the pope’s corpse as the faithful line up to pay their respects," one Instagram user wrote. Latest social media trend is to get a selfie with the dead Pope #maincharacter #entitled #accountability pic.twitter.com/rf2LM4T8V0 — Im The Main Character (@MainCharacterDD) April 24, 2025 “People were being asked to put their selfie sticks away when they got to the front,” UK tourist Martin Gilsenan told the Mirror. His wife said that they were surprised by people clicking pictures without being stopped and found it "very distasteful". “There were also many people looking around and getting upset with those on the phones,” he said, with images showing others crowding around taking pics, despite being told not to. Also read: ‘Just Franciscus’: Pope Francis’ final wish reveals how his burial will take place One of the users posted on X, saying, "What a rotten age, when people no longer know how to behave, even in front of a deceased person..." Des gens font un selfie devant le corps du pape, exposé dans la basilique Saint-Pierre de Rome. Quelle époque pourrie dans laquelle les gens ne savent plus se tenir, même devant un défunt...#PapaFrancesco pic.twitter.com/cSk0ZU2Sou — Tanguy David (@tanguy_france) April 24, 2025 Another person said that she was surprised by the fact that people were getting their phones out and taking selfies with the coffin. “What did surprise me is the fact that earlier we were told no photos in the Sistine Chapel and here people were getting their phone out and doing selfies with the coffin,” Janine Venables, of Wales, told the Daily Mail. WATCH | Mourners Pay Respects To Pope Francis In St. Peter's Basilica

'What a rotten age': Mourners take smiling selfies with Pope Francis' body in casket, triggers outrage

#GRAVITAS | As all eyes are on the Vatican City on who the next pope will be, there's a crisis looming that of Pope Francis' death potentially dividing the Catholic church between Liberals and Conservatives. Watch this video to find out more.

Split threat over catholic church in Pope elections

About 170 foreign delegations, including those of Donald Trump, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and Prince William, expected to descend on the Vatican for Saturday's funeral, along with crowds of up to 200,000 people, those overseeing the event are in for a hyper-vigilant few days. Watch for more details!

170 foreign delegations along with 200,000 visitors expected to attend Pope's funeral

The Roman Catholic Church will soon start the process of choosing a new pontiff. Pope Francis passed away on April 21 after leading the papacy for 12 years. A new pontiff will be picked by cardinals at a "secretive" conclave. They come together under one roof at the Sistine Chapel to pick the new pope, but no one knows for sure what transpired behind those closed doors.
Why is the process of picking a new pope such a hushed affair? Some people say that God himself comes down on Earth and delivers the verdict through the cardinals. Such a mystical occurrence cannot take place in front of millions of eyes, and so it happens away from the eyes of the world.
However, another reason for it is attributed to something that dates back to the 13th century. According to historians, there was a period when the seat of the pontiff was empty for a long time.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-once-wrote-a-love-letter-to-this-woman-if-i-do-not-marry-you-i-will-become-a-priest-8990857" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Pope Francis once wrote a love letter to this woman: 'If I do not marry you, I will become a priest'</a>
This led the church to shut everyone in a room and close the doors. It was meant to create a sense of urgency in the election and keep them focused on the job at hand without any external interference. At the time, this concept was thought to happen because people believed God descended to impart wisdom to the cardinals.
Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/prophecy-of-st-malachy-pope-francis-death-linked-to-this-900-year-old-prediction-is-doomsday-near-8989551" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank"> Prophecy of St Malachy: Pope Francis' death linked to this 900-year-old prediction. Is doomsday near?</a>
An interesting tale suggests that the deliberations and delay once led villagers in Viterbo, Italy, to remove the roof of the palace where the cardinals had gathered. They were trying to get them to reach a decision quickly.
<h2>Pope's seat was vacant for three years</h2>
The three-year vacancy in the 13th century also led the new pope to create a set of rules. Pope Gregory X, who was selected in 1271 as the new leader of the Catholic church, took cognisance of the delay and issued a papal bull known as Ubi periculum.&nbsp;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-moment-pope-francis-signed-two-bottles-of-bourbon-and-for-a-good-cause-8989327" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">WATCH | When Pope Francis signed two bottles of bourbon AND for a good cause</a>
This consisted of a set of laws for future papal elections and established secrecy around them. The cardinals were supposed to sit behind closed doors, away from the distractions of the world. Each of them could have one or two servants. Their food was delivered through a window. In case the cardinals were unable to pick a pope within eight days, their food stock was cut down to bread, water and wine.&nbsp;
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/2304_POPE_6PM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2304_POPE_6PM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=234&amp;tags=pope, francis, new pope, vatican" title="Pope Francis lies in state at Vatican as thousands pay final tribute" id="PL_iframe_block-m9u10icw-barq11ng-ml17zp6n"></iframe>
So now the cardinals were in a situation where they had to pick a new pope as soon as possible. The setting prevented them from procrastinating, besides keeping political agendas from leaders at bay.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vatican-releases-photos-of-pope-francis-in-open-coffin-8988829" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Vatican releases photos of Pope Francis in open coffin; funeral to take place on Saturday</a>
But it also came with a downside. Miles Pattenden, an Oxford University professor, told NPR that personal hygiene became a huge concern as the cardinals remained inside the conclave. He says records suggest that during 16th- and 17th-century papal conclaves, it got "disgusting" and "how susceptible it was to disease, especially if the conclave was taking place in summer." Some of them even fell ill because of the conditions.
However, in 1996, Pope John Paul II issued a declaration which stated that during future conclaves, all cardinals will live in the guesthouse Domus Sanctae Marthae, built in the same year in Vatican City.

Why is Pope's election such a secretive affair? Something happened in the 13th century that put the cardinals behind closed doors. World Trending

The Roman Catholic Church will soon start the process of choosing a new pontiff. Pope Francis passed away on April 21 after leading the papacy for 12 years. A new pontiff will be picked by cardinals at a "secretive" conclave. They come together under one roof at the Sistine Chapel to pick the new pope, but no one knows for sure what transpired behind those closed doors. Why is the process of picking a new pope such a hushed affair? Some people say that God himself comes down on Earth and delivers the verdict through the cardinals. Such a mystical occurrence cannot take place in front of millions of eyes, and so it happens away from the eyes of the world. However, another reason for it is attributed to something that dates back to the 13th century. According to historians, there was a period when the seat of the pontiff was empty for a long time. Also Read: Pope Francis once wrote a love letter to this woman: 'If I do not marry you, I will become a priest' This led the church to shut everyone in a room and close the doors. It was meant to create a sense of urgency in the election and keep them focused on the job at hand without any external interference. At the time, this concept was thought to happen because people believed God descended to impart wisdom to the cardinals. Also Read: Prophecy of St Malachy: Pope Francis' death linked to this 900-year-old prediction. Is doomsday near? An interesting tale suggests that the deliberations and delay once led villagers in Viterbo, Italy, to remove the roof of the palace where the cardinals had gathered. They were trying to get them to reach a decision quickly. Pope's seat was vacant for three years The three-year vacancy in the 13th century also led the new pope to create a set of rules. Pope Gregory X, who was selected in 1271 as the new leader of the Catholic church, took cognisance of the delay and issued a papal bull known as Ubi periculum. Also Read: WATCH | When Pope Francis signed two bottles of bourbon AND for a good cause This consisted of a set of laws for future papal elections and established secrecy around them. The cardinals were supposed to sit behind closed doors, away from the distractions of the world. Each of them could have one or two servants. Their food was delivered through a window. In case the cardinals were unable to pick a pope within eight days, their food stock was cut down to bread, water and wine. So now the cardinals were in a situation where they had to pick a new pope as soon as possible. The setting prevented them from procrastinating, besides keeping political agendas from leaders at bay. Also Read: Vatican releases photos of Pope Francis in open coffin; funeral to take place on Saturday But it also came with a downside. Miles Pattenden, an Oxford University professor, told NPR that personal hygiene became a huge concern as the cardinals remained inside the conclave. He says records suggest that during 16th- and 17th-century papal conclaves, it got "disgusting" and "how susceptible it was to disease, especially if the conclave was taking place in summer." Some of them even fell ill because of the conditions. However, in 1996, Pope John Paul II issued a declaration which stated that during future conclaves, all cardinals will live in the guesthouse Domus Sanctae Marthae, built in the same year in Vatican City.

Why is Pope's election such a secretive affair? The reason can be traced to a 13th-century incident

Tributes pour in from every corner of the globe as the world mourns Pope Francis. But even as grief grips the faithful, eyes turn to the Sistine Chapel where the process of electing his successor begins. And could the next pope hail from Asia, marking a historic shift for the Catholic Church?

Could an Asian pope soon lead the Catholic Church? | Key candidates in an unpredictable contest

Pope Francis has requested a modest burial at the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome, according to his will, which the Vatican made public on Monday. 
The will, dated 29 June 2022, outlines the late pontiff&rsquo;s desire to be laid to rest in an unadorned grave, marked only with the name &ldquo;Franciscus.&rdquo;
&ldquo;I wish my last earthly journey to end at this very ancient Marian shrine,&rdquo; Francis wrote. He noted that he had visited the basilica at the start and end of every apostolic journey during his 12-year papacy. On his very first day as pope in 2013, he quietly left the Vatican to pray there.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-once-wrote-a-love-letter-to-this-woman-if-i-do-not-marry-you-i-will-become-a-priest-8990857">Pope Francis once wrote a love letter to this woman: 'If I do not marry you, I will become a priest'</a>
Francis also made regular visits to St. Mary Major after hospital stays, including on 23 March, when he returned from a 38-day admission to Gemelli Hospital. On that occasion, he remained in the car during the visit.
<h2>'Simple, without particular decoration'</h2>
In the will, Francis requested that his tomb be placed directly in the earth, &ldquo;simple, without particular decoration.&rdquo; He asked that it be located in the aisle near the Pauline Chapel, where the revered icon of the Virgin Mary, Salus Populi Romani, is displayed.
He said he wished to be buried there in gratitude to the Virgin Mary &ldquo;for her docile and maternal care.&rdquo;
This preference was first shared by the pope in a 2023 interview with a Mexican TV programme, where he said he wanted to be buried at St. Mary Major &ldquo;because of my great devotion.&rdquo;
The Vatican also released Francis&rsquo; official death certificate on Monday. It stated he died at 7:35 AM local time from a cerebral stroke that led to a coma and an &ldquo;irreversible&rdquo; cardiac arrest.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/document-recording-his-life-more-whats-in-popes-casket-list-of-items-to-be-buried-with-pope-in-rome-8990733">'Document recording his life &amp; more': What's in Pope's casket - List of items to be buried with Pope in Rome</a>
The date he signed his will, 29 June, is the feast of Sts. Peter and Paul&mdash;a public holiday in Rome. In the document, Francis reflected on the nearing end of his life, writing that he felt &ldquo;the sunset of my earthly life is approaching with lively hope in eternal life.&rdquo; He also referred to &ldquo;the suffering that has been present in the last part of my life.&rdquo; The previous year, he had undergone colon surgery at Gemelli Hospital, marking his first admission there.
In the final lines of his will, Francis wrote a message often echoed in his speeches: he asked God to &ldquo;give the deserved reward to those who loved me and will continue to pray for me.&rdquo;

World: In the will, Francis requested that his tomb be placed directly in the earth, “simple, without particular decoration.” He asked that it be located in the aisle near the Pauline Chapel, where the revered icon of the Virgin Mary, Salus Populi Romani, is displayed.

Pope Francis has requested a modest burial at the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome, according to his will, which the Vatican made public on Monday. The will, dated 29 June 2022, outlines the late pontiff’s desire to be laid to rest in an unadorned grave, marked only with the name “Franciscus.” “I wish my last earthly journey to end at this very ancient Marian shrine,” Francis wrote. He noted that he had visited the basilica at the start and end of every apostolic journey during his 12-year papacy. On his very first day as pope in 2013, he quietly left the Vatican to pray there. Also read: Pope Francis once wrote a love letter to this woman: 'If I do not marry you, I will become a priest' Francis also made regular visits to St. Mary Major after hospital stays, including on 23 March, when he returned from a 38-day admission to Gemelli Hospital. On that occasion, he remained in the car during the visit. 'Simple, without particular decoration' In the will, Francis requested that his tomb be placed directly in the earth, “simple, without particular decoration.” He asked that it be located in the aisle near the Pauline Chapel, where the revered icon of the Virgin Mary, Salus Populi Romani, is displayed. He said he wished to be buried there in gratitude to the Virgin Mary “for her docile and maternal care.” This preference was first shared by the pope in a 2023 interview with a Mexican TV programme, where he said he wanted to be buried at St. Mary Major “because of my great devotion.” The Vatican also released Francis’ official death certificate on Monday. It stated he died at 7:35 AM local time from a cerebral stroke that led to a coma and an “irreversible” cardiac arrest. Also read: 'Document recording his life & more': What's in Pope's casket - List of items to be buried with Pope in Rome The date he signed his will, 29 June, is the feast of Sts. Peter and Paul—a public holiday in Rome. In the document, Francis reflected on the nearing end of his life, writing that he felt “the sunset of my earthly life is approaching with lively hope in eternal life.” He also referred to “the suffering that has been present in the last part of my life.” The previous year, he had undergone colon surgery at Gemelli Hospital, marking his first admission there. In the final lines of his will, Francis wrote a message often echoed in his speeches: he asked God to “give the deserved reward to those who loved me and will continue to pray for me.”

‘Just Franciscus’: Pope Francis’ final wish reveals how his burial will take place

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/pope-francis-life-in-photos-a-look-back-8985395" rel="dofollow">Pope Francis</a> died of a stroke and irreversible heart failure on Monday at the age of 88. As the world mourns his death, various stories about his life have been doing the rounds on social media - one of them being his childhood love story with his neighbour. Reportedly, it was a heartbreak that led him to the priesthood. Pope Francis was born as Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina's Buenos Aires on December 17, 1936.
In conversations and books like &ldquo;On Heaven and Earth&rdquo; and &ldquo;The Name of God is Mercy,&rdquo; Pope Francis confessed to feeling emotions like love during his childhood days and also said that he wanted to start a family.
He reportedly fell in love with Amalia Demonte, who appeared in an interview with the Associated Press and recalled that Pope had sent a love letter to her before he accepted the priesthood.
Amalia shared that Jorge had written her a letter saying, "If I do not marry you, I will become a priest." She also said that he constructed a tiny wooden home with a red roof with the inscription, &ldquo;This is what I will buy when we get married.&rdquo;
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-cause-of-death-revealed-pontiff-died-of-stroke-and-heart-failure-says-vatican-8987526">Pope Francis' cause of death revealed: Pontiff died of stroke and heart failure, says Vatican</a>
<h2>Pope's funeral to be held on Saturday</h2>
Meanwhile, the Vatican on Tuesday (Apr 22) confirmed that his&nbsp;funeral will be held at 10 am local time (4:00 am ET) on Saturday. The Vatican also published <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vatican-releases-photos-of-pope-francis-in-open-coffin-8988829" rel="dofollow">a photo and video of Pope Francis</a> in his open coffin, dressed in a red robe with the papal mitre on his head and a rosary in his hand.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9snlgtz-sccxhnc8-1wp5i2f4">
The Vatican releases first visuals of Pope Francis, showing him in casket . . . .<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WIONUncut?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WIONUncut</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PopeFrancis?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PopeFrancis</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Vatican?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Vatican</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VaticanCity?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VaticanCity</a> <a href="https://t.co/q9pzN9kRV4">pic.twitter.com/q9pzN9kRV4</a>
&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1914581012798902661?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2025</a></blockquote>
The first so-called "general congregation", called following the death of Francis, signals the start of a centuries-old tradition that culminates in the election by cardinals of a new pontiff within three weeks. Cardinals of all ages are invited to the congregations, although only those under the age of 80 are eligible to vote for a new pope in the conclave.&nbsp;The conclave should begin no less than 15 and no more than 20 days after the death of the pope.
India began three days of state mourning on Tuesday, meanwhile, his home country, Argentina, prepared for a week of national mourning.&nbsp;
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/document-recording-his-life-more-whats-in-popes-casket-list-of-items-to-be-buried-with-pope-in-rome-8990733">'Document recording his life &amp; more': What's in Pope's casket - List of items to be buried with Pope in Rome</a>
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/2204_POPE_6PM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2204_POPE_6PM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=154&amp;tags=pope, francis, wion" title="Pope&rsquo;s Funeral To Take Place On April 26 In Rome, Holy See Says" id="PL_iframe_block-m9sng8dk-2hgpkflg-yzdmd9wm"></iframe>

World | Pope Francis died of a stroke and irreversible heart failure on Monday at the age of 88. Reportedly, it was a heartbreak that led him to the priesthood.

Pope Francis died of a stroke and irreversible heart failure on Monday at the age of 88. As the world mourns his death, various stories about his life have been doing the rounds on social media - one of them being his childhood love story with his neighbour. Reportedly, it was a heartbreak that led him to the priesthood. Pope Francis was born as Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina's Buenos Aires on December 17, 1936. In conversations and books like “On Heaven and Earth” and “The Name of God is Mercy,” Pope Francis confessed to feeling emotions like love during his childhood days and also said that he wanted to start a family. He reportedly fell in love with Amalia Demonte, who appeared in an interview with the Associated Press and recalled that Pope had sent a love letter to her before he accepted the priesthood. Amalia shared that Jorge had written her a letter saying, "If I do not marry you, I will become a priest." She also said that he constructed a tiny wooden home with a red roof with the inscription, “This is what I will buy when we get married.” Read More | Pope Francis' cause of death revealed: Pontiff died of stroke and heart failure, says Vatican Pope's funeral to be held on Saturday Meanwhile, the Vatican on Tuesday (Apr 22) confirmed that his funeral will be held at 10 am local time (4:00 am ET) on Saturday. The Vatican also published a photo and video of Pope Francis in his open coffin, dressed in a red robe with the papal mitre on his head and a rosary in his hand. The Vatican releases first visuals of Pope Francis, showing him in casket . . . .#WIONUncut #PopeFrancis #Vatican #VaticanCity pic.twitter.com/q9pzN9kRV4 — WION (@WIONews) April 22, 2025 The first so-called "general congregation", called following the death of Francis, signals the start of a centuries-old tradition that culminates in the election by cardinals of a new pontiff within three weeks. Cardinals of all ages are invited to the congregations, although only those under the age of 80 are eligible to vote for a new pope in the conclave. The conclave should begin no less than 15 and no more than 20 days after the death of the pope. India began three days of state mourning on Tuesday, meanwhile, his home country, Argentina, prepared for a week of national mourning. Read More | 'Document recording his life & more': What's in Pope's casket - List of items to be buried with Pope in Rome

Pope Francis once wrote a love letter to this woman: 'If I do not marry you, I will become a priest'

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-moment-pope-francis-signed-two-bottles-of-bourbon-and-for-a-good-cause-8989327">Pope Francis</a>, the first Latin American pope, died at the age of 88 on April 21 (Monday). His funeral will take place on Saturday, as confirmed by the Vatican. The pictures of his body in an open casket were made public today.
He was seen lying in a wooden coffin, dressed in red, with a rosary placed on his hands. Also, his body will be on display for the public to pay their respects in St Peter&rsquo;s Basilica from Wednesday morning.
His death comes after a 12-year papacy. His cause of death was complications from a stroke and heart failure.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/prophecy-of-st-malachy-pope-francis-death-linked-to-this-900-year-old-prediction-is-doomsday-near-8989551">Prophecy of St Malachy: Pope Francis' death linked to this 900-year-old prediction. Is doomsday near?</a>
<h2>Items to be buried with Pope?&nbsp;</h2>
There are several symbolic items that will be placed in the casket. Here's the list of things that will be buried with the Pope.&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>Miter</li>
<li>Francis' hat</li>
<li>Crozier</li>
<li>Pastoral staff</li>
<li>Rosary</li>
<li>Rogito - A legal document that as records of Pope's life&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
However, a copy of the document will be kept in the Vatican's archive.&nbsp;
Generally, popes are buried holding a rosary, a death certificate and the broken fisherman&rsquo;s ring, which is a unique signet ring presented to each Pope during his papal inauguration.
It is destroyed before the burial, marking an end to the pope's reign.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fact-check-did-dalai-lama-cancel-meeting-with-us-vp-jd-vance-after-pope-francis-death-8989768">Fact Check: Did Dalai Lama 'cancel' meeting with US VP JD Vance after Pope Francis' death?</a>
<h2>Details of Pope's funeral</h2>
Pope Francis' funeral will be held on Saturday at 10 am local time in the square in front of St Peter's Basilica, Rome.&nbsp;
The coffin will be taken inside the church, before it is taken to the Roman Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore for burial.&nbsp;
Earlier, Francis expressed that he wanted to have a simple funeral. In an interview in 2023, he said he would be laid to rest in his town at the Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica in Rome&rsquo;s Esquilino neighbourhood.
WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/popes-funeral-to-take-place-on-april-26-in-rome-holy-see-says-8990591">Pope&rsquo;s Funeral To Take Place On April 26 In Rome, Holy See Says</a>
&nbsp;

Pope's funeral will be held on Saturday at 10 am local time in the square in front of St Peter's Basilica, Rome. He died due to complications from a heart failure. WORLD

Pope Francis, the first Latin American pope, died at the age of 88 on April 21 (Monday). His funeral will take place on Saturday, as confirmed by the Vatican. The pictures of his body in an open casket were made public today. He was seen lying in a wooden coffin, dressed in red, with a rosary placed on his hands. Also, his body will be on display for the public to pay their respects in St Peter’s Basilica from Wednesday morning. His death comes after a 12-year papacy. His cause of death was complications from a stroke and heart failure. Also read: Prophecy of St Malachy: Pope Francis' death linked to this 900-year-old prediction. Is doomsday near? Items to be buried with Pope? There are several symbolic items that will be placed in the casket. Here's the list of things that will be buried with the Pope. Miter Francis' hat Crozier Pastoral staff Rosary Rogito - A legal document that as records of Pope's life However, a copy of the document will be kept in the Vatican's archive. Generally, popes are buried holding a rosary, a death certificate and the broken fisherman’s ring, which is a unique signet ring presented to each Pope during his papal inauguration. It is destroyed before the burial, marking an end to the pope's reign. Also read: Fact Check: Did Dalai Lama 'cancel' meeting with US VP JD Vance after Pope Francis' death? Details of Pope's funeral Pope Francis' funeral will be held on Saturday at 10 am local time in the square in front of St Peter's Basilica, Rome. The coffin will be taken inside the church, before it is taken to the Roman Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore for burial. Earlier, Francis expressed that he wanted to have a simple funeral. In an interview in 2023, he said he would be laid to rest in his town at the Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica in Rome’s Esquilino neighbourhood. WATCH | Pope’s Funeral To Take Place On April 26 In Rome, Holy See Says

'Document recording his life & more': What's in Pope's casket - List of items to be buried with Pope in Rome

After Pope Francis' death, a report emerged saying that the Buddhist leader Dalai Lama "quietly" cancelled a meeting with US President JD Vance.&nbsp;
Pope passed away at the age of 88 due to complications from a stroke and heart failure, on Monday.&nbsp;
The US Vice President is currently on a four-day visit to India, from April 21 to 24. While, the Dalai Lama is at his residence in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh.&nbsp;
The Dalai Lama canceled his meeting with JD Vance, the Babylon Bee reported.&nbsp;
According to some sources close to the Buddhist leader, Dalai Lama cancelled simply "did not want to die".
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-moment-pope-francis-signed-two-bottles-of-bourbon-and-for-a-good-cause-8989327">WATCH | When Pope Francis signed two bottles of bourbon AND for a good cause</a>
&ldquo;Though the Dalai Lama's representatives said publicly that the timing of the cancellation was just a coincidence, sources close to the religious leader privately disclosed that the revered Tibetan Buddhist figure simply did not want to die,&rdquo; the website stated.&nbsp;
Babylon Bee further posted a &lsquo;spokesmonk&rsquo;s' message about the Dalai Lama being &lsquo;double-booked&rsquo;.
It then quickly went viral on social media, as users wrote, "Dalai Lama quietly cancels scheduled meeting with JD Vance."
They also attached a screenshot of the Babylon Bee report.&nbsp;
WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/global-tributes-pour-in-to-honour-pope-francis-after-his-death-8989025">Global tributes pour in to honour Pope Francis after his death</a>
JD Vance met with Pope just hours before his death on Easter. Netizens started questioning the relationship between Vance's meeting and Pope's death.&nbsp;
People on social media started accusing him of being the reason the pope died. One internet user on X wrote, "He passed away right after your visit. Coincidence? I don't think so."&nbsp;
Meanwhile, another asked, &ldquo;What did you do bro?&rdquo;&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-is-not-the-end-what-pope-francis-wrote-in-book-published-a-day-after-his-death-8989153">What Pope Francis wrote in book published a day after his death</a>
<h2>Fact check</h2>
The claim made above is fake. No such meeting was scheduled between Dalai Lama and JD Vance.&nbsp;
Moreover, The Babylon Bee is a satirical news website, that sometimes post fake news as per its satirical take on events.&nbsp;
&ldquo;The Babylon Bee is the world&rsquo;s best satire site, totally inerrant in all its truth claims. We write satire about Christian stuff, political stuff, and everyday life," The Babylon Bee wrote in its About section.&nbsp;
&ldquo;If you would like to complain about something on our site, take it up with God,&rdquo; it added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vatican-releases-photos-of-pope-francis-in-open-coffin-8988829">Vatican releases photos of Pope Francis in open coffin; funeral to take place on Saturday</a>

US Vice President is currently on a four-day visit to India, from April 21 to 24. While, the Dalai Lama is at his residence in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh |  WORLD

After Pope Francis' death, a report emerged saying that the Buddhist leader Dalai Lama "quietly" cancelled a meeting with US President JD Vance. Pope passed away at the age of 88 due to complications from a stroke and heart failure, on Monday. The US Vice President is currently on a four-day visit to India, from April 21 to 24. While, the Dalai Lama is at his residence in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh. The Dalai Lama canceled his meeting with JD Vance, the Babylon Bee reported. According to some sources close to the Buddhist leader, Dalai Lama cancelled simply "did not want to die". Also read: WATCH | When Pope Francis signed two bottles of bourbon AND for a good cause “Though the Dalai Lama's representatives said publicly that the timing of the cancellation was just a coincidence, sources close to the religious leader privately disclosed that the revered Tibetan Buddhist figure simply did not want to die,” the website stated. Babylon Bee further posted a ‘spokesmonk’s' message about the Dalai Lama being ‘double-booked’. It then quickly went viral on social media, as users wrote, "Dalai Lama quietly cancels scheduled meeting with JD Vance." They also attached a screenshot of the Babylon Bee report. WATCH | Global tributes pour in to honour Pope Francis after his death JD Vance met with Pope just hours before his death on Easter. Netizens started questioning the relationship between Vance's meeting and Pope's death. People on social media started accusing him of being the reason the pope died. One internet user on X wrote, "He passed away right after your visit. Coincidence? I don't think so." Meanwhile, another asked, “What did you do bro?” Also read: What Pope Francis wrote in book published a day after his death Fact check The claim made above is fake. No such meeting was scheduled between Dalai Lama and JD Vance. Moreover, The Babylon Bee is a satirical news website, that sometimes post fake news as per its satirical take on events. “The Babylon Bee is the world’s best satire site, totally inerrant in all its truth claims. We write satire about Christian stuff, political stuff, and everyday life," The Babylon Bee wrote in its About section. “If you would like to complain about something on our site, take it up with God,” it added. Also read: Vatican releases photos of Pope Francis in open coffin; funeral to take place on Saturday

Fact Check: Did Dalai Lama 'cancel' meeting with US VP JD Vance after Pope Francis' death?

Last year in February, Pope Francis was seen signing two bottles of bourbon, an act that amused many at that time.&nbsp;It all started when Reverend Jim Sichko, a Kentucky-based Roman Catholic priest, met the Pope in Public and quickly took out two bottles of the drink. As absurd as the act may sound, it was for a good cause. Sichko did so intending to raise money for local organisations for public welfare, and he was even successful in it. After the Pope&rsquo;s signature, the bourbon bottles were sold for over &pound;24,000, and the money was used for community causes.
"I just pulled out the bottle of bourbon with a pen, and he looked at me and he signed it," Sichko said, The Sky News reported.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-is-not-the-end-what-pope-francis-wrote-in-book-published-a-day-after-his-death-8989153">What Pope Francis wrote in book published a day after his death</a>
<figure class="image"><img alt="Pope Francis" src="https://img-cdn.publive.online/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/04/22/18ZtZIUhGipIVGck82d6.jpg" style="width: 1280px;">
<figcaption>Photograph: (X)</figcaption>
</figure>
&nbsp;
<figure class="image"><img alt="Pope Francis" src="https://img-cdn.publive.online/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/04/22/1AiuEMlapxmZatBm9kQH.jpg" style="width: 1280px;">
<figcaption>Photograph: (X)</figcaption>
</figure>
<h2>The funeral&nbsp;</h2>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vatican-releases-photos-of-pope-francis-in-open-coffin-8988829">Vatican releases photos of Pope Francis in open coffin; funeral to take place on Saturday</a>
Pope Francis died at the age of 88 on Monday (April 21). Just two months before his demise, the Pope has authored a book on February 7 that is scheduled to be published &nbsp;on April 24.
The Vatican also confirmed that the funeral will be held at 10 am local time (4:00 am ET) on Saturday. As per the Apostolic Constitution, the funeral should be held between the fourth and sixth days after the pope's death.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-cardinals-to-vote-for-vatican-next-pontiff-after-death-of-pope-francis-8988362">Four Indian cardinals to vote for next Pope. Who are they?</a>
<h2>What Pope Francis wrote in the book published a day after his death</h2>
The Vatican City has released the preface of the book: &ldquo;Awaiting a New Beginning. Reflections on Old Age.&rdquo; The book was written in Italian by Cardinal Angelo Scola, Archbishop Emeritus of Milan. The Vatican Publishing House (LEV) has published the book that will be available in bookstores by Thursday (April 24).&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-cardinals-to-vote-for-vatican-next-pontiff-after-death-of-pope-francis-8988362">Four Indian cardinals to vote for next Pope. Who are they?</a>
&nbsp;

Trending | World | This quirky moment with Pope Francis and the bourbon bottles quickly captured the media's attention, becoming a trending topic and sparking discussions globally.

Last year in February, Pope Francis was seen signing two bottles of bourbon, an act that amused many at that time. It all started when Reverend Jim Sichko, a Kentucky-based Roman Catholic priest, met the Pope in Public and quickly took out two bottles of the drink. As absurd as the act may sound, it was for a good cause. Sichko did so intending to raise money for local organisations for public welfare, and he was even successful in it. After the Pope’s signature, the bourbon bottles were sold for over £24,000, and the money was used for community causes. "I just pulled out the bottle of bourbon with a pen, and he looked at me and he signed it," Sichko said, The Sky News reported. Also read: What Pope Francis wrote in book published a day after his death Photograph: (X) Photograph: (X) The funeral Also read: Vatican releases photos of Pope Francis in open coffin; funeral to take place on Saturday Pope Francis died at the age of 88 on Monday (April 21). Just two months before his demise, the Pope has authored a book on February 7 that is scheduled to be published on April 24. The Vatican also confirmed that the funeral will be held at 10 am local time (4:00 am ET) on Saturday. As per the Apostolic Constitution, the funeral should be held between the fourth and sixth days after the pope's death. Also read: Four Indian cardinals to vote for next Pope. Who are they? What Pope Francis wrote in the book published a day after his death The Vatican City has released the preface of the book: “Awaiting a New Beginning. Reflections on Old Age.” The book was written in Italian by Cardinal Angelo Scola, Archbishop Emeritus of Milan. The Vatican Publishing House (LEV) has published the book that will be available in bookstores by Thursday (April 24). Also read: Four Indian cardinals to vote for next Pope. Who are they?

WATCH | When Pope Francis signed two bottles of bourbon AND for a good cause

Pope Francis died at the age of 88 on Monday (April 21). Just two months before his demise, the Pope has authored a book on February 7 that is scheduled to be published &nbsp;on April 24.
But, after the demise of the Pope, the Vatican City has released the preface of the book: &ldquo;Awaiting a New Beginning. Reflections on Old Age.&rdquo; The book was written in Italian by Cardinal Angelo Scola, Archbishop Emeritus of Milan. The Vatican Publishing House (LEV) has published the book that will be available in bookstores by Thursday (April 24).&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-cardinals-to-vote-for-vatican-next-pontiff-after-death-of-pope-francis-8988362">Four Indian cardinals to vote for next Pope. Who are they?</a>
<h2>'A new beginning'&nbsp;</h2>
Pope Francis called death a new beginning in the soon-to-be-available book. He said that death is &ldquo;not the end of everything&rdquo;.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/what-did-you-do-jd-vance-met-pope-francis-just-hours-before-his-death-netizens-have-questions-8988024">&lsquo;What did you do?&rsquo; JD Vance met Pope Francis just hours before his death, netizens have questions</a>
"Death is not the end of everything, but the beginning of something. It is a new beginning, as the title wisely highlights, because eternal life, which those who love already experience on earth in the occupations of every day, is starting something that will not end,&rdquo; the Pope said in the book.&nbsp;
&ldquo;And it is precisely for this reason that it is a 'new' beginning, because we will experience something that we have never fully experienced: eternity,&rdquo; he added.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vatican-releases-photos-of-pope-francis-in-open-coffin-8988829">Vatican releases photos of Pope Francis in open coffin; funeral to take place on Saturday</a>
<h2>&lsquo;We must not be afraid of old age&rsquo;&nbsp;</h2>
&ldquo;Yes, we must not be afraid of old age, we must not fear embracing becoming old, because life is life, and sugarcoating reality means betraying the truth of things. Restoring pride to a term too often considered unhealthy is a gesture for which we should be grateful to Cardinal Scola,&rdquo; the Pope wrote in the book.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/vaticans-secret-process-for-choosing-a-new-pope-8988711">Vatican's secret process for choosing a new pope</a>
&ldquo;It is true, one becomes old, but this is not the problem: the problem is how one becomes old. If we live this time of life as a grace, and not with resentment; if we accept the time (even a long one) in which we experience diminished strength, the increasing fatigue of the body, the reflexes no longer what they were in our youth,&rdquo; the late Pope Francis wrote.&nbsp;

Trending | World | The book was written in Italian by Cardinal Angelo Scola, Archbishop Emeritus of Milan. It will be available in bookstores by Thursday (April 24).

Pope Francis died at the age of 88 on Monday (April 21). Just two months before his demise, the Pope has authored a book on February 7 that is scheduled to be published on April 24. But, after the demise of the Pope, the Vatican City has released the preface of the book: “Awaiting a New Beginning. Reflections on Old Age.” The book was written in Italian by Cardinal Angelo Scola, Archbishop Emeritus of Milan. The Vatican Publishing House (LEV) has published the book that will be available in bookstores by Thursday (April 24). Also read: Four Indian cardinals to vote for next Pope. Who are they? 'A new beginning' Pope Francis called death a new beginning in the soon-to-be-available book. He said that death is “not the end of everything”. Also read: ‘What did you do?’ JD Vance met Pope Francis just hours before his death, netizens have questions "Death is not the end of everything, but the beginning of something. It is a new beginning, as the title wisely highlights, because eternal life, which those who love already experience on earth in the occupations of every day, is starting something that will not end,” the Pope said in the book. “And it is precisely for this reason that it is a 'new' beginning, because we will experience something that we have never fully experienced: eternity,” he added. Also read: Vatican releases photos of Pope Francis in open coffin; funeral to take place on Saturday ‘We must not be afraid of old age’ “Yes, we must not be afraid of old age, we must not fear embracing becoming old, because life is life, and sugarcoating reality means betraying the truth of things. Restoring pride to a term too often considered unhealthy is a gesture for which we should be grateful to Cardinal Scola,” the Pope wrote in the book. Also read: Vatican's secret process for choosing a new pope “It is true, one becomes old, but this is not the problem: the problem is how one becomes old. If we live this time of life as a grace, and not with resentment; if we accept the time (even a long one) in which we experience diminished strength, the increasing fatigue of the body, the reflexes no longer what they were in our youth,” the late Pope Francis wrote.

What Pope Francis wrote in book published a day after his death

Pope Francis died of a stroke and irreversible heart failure. The Vatican has released the death certificate of the late pontiff. World leaders are mourning the loss of Pope Francis. US President Donald Trump has called him a strong and spiritual voice in a divided world. Watch in for more details!

Global tributes pour in to honour Pope Francis after his death

From Buenos Aires to Vatican: The journey of people's pope

'A sad day for the faithful': Celebrities share heartfelt tribute

Pope Francis has died at the age of 88, the Vatican announced on Monday (Apr 21). Now the world's attention will move to the election and the announcement of the next Pope. This process is steeped in tradition, and the most intriguing and anticipated part of it is the emergence of smoke from the Sistine chapel that indicates whether the final decision has been made on the next pontiff of the Roman Catholic church. Watch in for more details!

Vatican's secret process for choosing a new pope

Israel-Hamas war: Envoy to Israel urges Hamas to sign deal so aid can enter Gaza

Pope Francis passed away on Monday (Apr 21) at the age of 88. He was the Vatican's first Latin American pontiff. After his passing the Vatican will observe Novendiale, the nine-day mourning period. It is an ancient Roman tradition which is in practice even today. And it is during this period that the preparation to elect the next Pope happens. As the mourning period concludes, the College of Cardinals will elect the new Vicar of Christ.
135 will be voting in the Papal conclave to elect the next pontiff, of which four are from India. Cardinal George Jacob Koovakad, Cardinal Anthony Poola, Cardinal Baselios Cleemis and Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrao will vote.
WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/peoples-pope-pope-francis-dies-at-88-leaving-legacy-of-compassion-8987961">People's pope: Pope Francis dies at 88, leaving legacy of compassion</a>
<h2>Who are the four Indians? Cardinal George Jacob Koovakad</h2>
Cardinal Koovakad serves as the Cardinal-Deacon of S Antonio di Padova a Circonvallazione Appia. In 2020, he began working in the offices of the Holy See's Secretariat of State in the Journeys Office. This department is in charge of organising the Pope's overseas trips. The 51-year-old also headed the office in 2021.
<h3>Cardinal Filipe Neri Antonio Sebastiao do Rosario Ferrao</h3>
Cardinal Filipe is the Metropolitan Archbishop of Goa and Daman in India since 2004. The 72-year-old serves as the President of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India. He is the member of Dicastery for Evangelisation, section for fundamental questions regarding evangelisation in the world. In January 2025, he assumed the presidency of Federation of Asian Bishops' Conferences.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/what-did-you-do-jd-vance-met-pope-francis-just-hours-before-his-death-netizens-have-questions-8988024">&lsquo;What did you do?&rsquo; JD Vance met Pope Francis just hours before his death, netizens have questions</a>
<h3>Cardinal Anthony Poola</h3>
Cardinal Poola is has been the Metropolitan Archbishop of Hyderabad since 2021. The 63-year-old belongs to Dalit Christian community and will also be India's first Dalit cardinal to vote to elect the next Pope. In 2022, he was elevated to the cardinalate by Pope Francis at a consistory held in Vatican.&nbsp;
<h3>Cardinal Baselios Cleemis Thottunkal</h3>
Cardinal Thottunkal is Major Archbishop of Trivandrum of the Syro-Malankara. He also serves as the president of the Synod of the Syro-Malankara Church. In 2012, he was named to the College of Cardinals of the Catholic Church by Pope Benedict XVI. When he was selected, he was the youngest member, he was 53. Now, the youngest cardinal is Mykola Bychok, who is 45 years of age.

Pope Francis passed away on Monday (Apr 21) at the age of 88. He was the Vatican's first Latin American pontiff. After his passing the Vatican will observe Novendiale, the nine-day mourning period. World

Pope Francis passed away on Monday (Apr 21) at the age of 88. He was the Vatican's first Latin American pontiff. After his passing the Vatican will observe Novendiale, the nine-day mourning period. It is an ancient Roman tradition which is in practice even today. And it is during this period that the preparation to elect the next Pope happens. As the mourning period concludes, the College of Cardinals will elect the new Vicar of Christ. 135 will be voting in the Papal conclave to elect the next pontiff, of which four are from India. Cardinal George Jacob Koovakad, Cardinal Anthony Poola, Cardinal Baselios Cleemis and Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrao will vote. WATCH | People's pope: Pope Francis dies at 88, leaving legacy of compassion Who are the four Indians? Cardinal George Jacob Koovakad Cardinal Koovakad serves as the Cardinal-Deacon of S Antonio di Padova a Circonvallazione Appia. In 2020, he began working in the offices of the Holy See's Secretariat of State in the Journeys Office. This department is in charge of organising the Pope's overseas trips. The 51-year-old also headed the office in 2021. Cardinal Filipe Neri Antonio Sebastiao do Rosario Ferrao Cardinal Filipe is the Metropolitan Archbishop of Goa and Daman in India since 2004. The 72-year-old serves as the President of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India. He is the member of Dicastery for Evangelisation, section for fundamental questions regarding evangelisation in the world. In January 2025, he assumed the presidency of Federation of Asian Bishops' Conferences. Also read: ‘What did you do?’ JD Vance met Pope Francis just hours before his death, netizens have questions Cardinal Anthony Poola Cardinal Poola is has been the Metropolitan Archbishop of Hyderabad since 2021. The 63-year-old belongs to Dalit Christian community and will also be India's first Dalit cardinal to vote to elect the next Pope. In 2022, he was elevated to the cardinalate by Pope Francis at a consistory held in Vatican. Cardinal Baselios Cleemis Thottunkal Cardinal Thottunkal is Major Archbishop of Trivandrum of the Syro-Malankara. He also serves as the president of the Synod of the Syro-Malankara Church. In 2012, he was named to the College of Cardinals of the Catholic Church by Pope Benedict XVI. When he was selected, he was the youngest member, he was 53. Now, the youngest cardinal is Mykola Bychok, who is 45 years of age.

Four Indian cardinals to vote for next Pope. Who are they?

Pope Francis death: Prayers and tributes pour in from around the world for Pope Francis

Pope Francis dies: 'Who am I to judge?': The pope who changed the conversation

Pope Francis died at the age of 80 on Monday (April 21). Tributes rolled in from across the world for him and from US Vice President JD Vance, who met the pope just hours before his death on Easter. Now, in a bizarre conspiracy, the internet thinks Vance has something to do with Pope's death.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9rzoehm-rmuvx0tk-rloh0q14">
I just learned of the passing of Pope Francis. My heart goes out to the millions of Christians all over the world who loved him. I was happy to see him yesterday, though he was obviously very ill. But I&rsquo;ll always remember him for the below homily he gave in the very early days&hellip;
&mdash; JD Vance (@JDVance) <a href="https://twitter.com/JDVance/status/1914239114406191255?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2025</a></blockquote>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/jd-vance-daughter-india-visit-akshardham-temple-vance-children-usha-vance-regular-dad-hes-a-girl-dad-8984750">Times when JD Vance showed he's not a regular dad, he's a GIRL DAD</a>
The US VP met the Pope a day before his death on Easter Sunday at the Vatican.&nbsp;
Expressing his tribute to the pope, Vance took to the social media platform X and wrote, "My heart goes out to the millions of Christians all over the world who loved him."&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-us-vp-jd-vance-hail-significant-progress-in-india-us-trade-talks-during-vital-new-delhi-meeting-8987158">PM Modi, US VP JD Vance hail 'significant progress' in India-US trade talks during vital New Delhi meeting</a>
"I was happy to see him yesterday, though he was obviously very ill. But I&rsquo;ll always remember him for the below homily he gave in the very early days of COVID," he added.&nbsp;
Just after the post, Vance's trolling started, where people started accusing him of being the reason the pope died.&nbsp;
<h2>'Can you meet with Putin next?'</h2>
One internet user on X wrote, "He passed away right after your visit. Coincidence? I don't think so."&nbsp;
Meanwhile, another asked, &ldquo;What did you do bro?&rdquo;&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-vice-president-jd-vance-visits-akshardham-temple-with-family-watch-8984821">US Vice President JD Vance visits Akshardham Temple with family- WATCH</a>
&ldquo;Poor guy died of cringe after meeting you,&rdquo; another said.&nbsp;
The trolling escalated when some even started giving suggestions to Vance to meet other big names, such as Russian President Vladimir Putin and George Soros.&nbsp;
&ldquo;JD, please visit George Soros next,&rdquo; one X user asked.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/jd-vance-visits-india-with-wife-usha-and-kids-a-glipmse-of-first-day-8985690">JD Vance visits India with wife Usha and kids: A glimpse of first day</a>
Meanwhile, another asked, &ldquo;Can you meet with Putin next?&rdquo;&nbsp;

Trending | World | Tributes poured in globally for Pope Francis after his unexpected passing at age, marking a significant loss for the Catholic community and world leaders alike.

Pope Francis died at the age of 80 on Monday (April 21). Tributes rolled in from across the world for him and from US Vice President JD Vance, who met the pope just hours before his death on Easter. Now, in a bizarre conspiracy, the internet thinks Vance has something to do with Pope's death. I just learned of the passing of Pope Francis. My heart goes out to the millions of Christians all over the world who loved him. I was happy to see him yesterday, though he was obviously very ill. But I’ll always remember him for the below homily he gave in the very early days… — JD Vance (@JDVance) April 21, 2025 Also read: Times when JD Vance showed he's not a regular dad, he's a GIRL DAD The US VP met the Pope a day before his death on Easter Sunday at the Vatican. Expressing his tribute to the pope, Vance took to the social media platform X and wrote, "My heart goes out to the millions of Christians all over the world who loved him." Also read: PM Modi, US VP JD Vance hail 'significant progress' in India-US trade talks during vital New Delhi meeting "I was happy to see him yesterday, though he was obviously very ill. But I’ll always remember him for the below homily he gave in the very early days of COVID," he added. Just after the post, Vance's trolling started, where people started accusing him of being the reason the pope died. 'Can you meet with Putin next?' One internet user on X wrote, "He passed away right after your visit. Coincidence? I don't think so." Meanwhile, another asked, “What did you do bro?” Also read: US Vice President JD Vance visits Akshardham Temple with family- WATCH “Poor guy died of cringe after meeting you,” another said. The trolling escalated when some even started giving suggestions to Vance to meet other big names, such as Russian President Vladimir Putin and George Soros. “JD, please visit George Soros next,” one X user asked. Also read: JD Vance visits India with wife Usha and kids: A glimpse of first day Meanwhile, another asked, “Can you meet with Putin next?”

‘What did you do?’ JD Vance met Pope Francis just hours before his death, netizens have questions

People's pope: Pope Francis dies at 88, leaving legacy of compassion

Pope Francis died of a stroke and irreversible heart failure. The Vatican has released the death certificate of the late pontiff.

Pope Francis death: Trump to attend Pope Francis’ funeral in Rome with First Lady Melania

Ace filmmaker Martin Scorsese mourned the death of Pope Francis as he remembered him as a &ldquo;remarkable human being&rdquo;. A regular at the Vatican, Martin Scorsese had met with Pope Francis on several occasions and every time had something great to say about him.
<h2>Martin Scorsese's tribute to Pope Francis</h2>
Honouring his legacy and work, Martin Scorsese told Variety in a statement, &ldquo;There is so much that can be said about the significance of Pope Francis and everything he meant to the world, to the church, to the papacy. I will leave that to others.&rdquo;
&ldquo;He was, in every way, a remarkable human being. He acknowledged his own failings. He radiated wisdom. He radiated goodness. He had an ironclad commitment to the good. He knew in his soul that ignorance was a terrible plague on humanity. So he never stopped learning. And he never stopped enlightening. And, he embraced, preached and practised forgiveness. Universal and constant forgiveness, &ldquo; he said.&nbsp;
<h2 class="gh-archive-page-post-title"><a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/when-hollywood-star-mark-walhlberg-had-to-seek-apology-from-pope-francis-for-this-film-8985304" aria-label="When Hollywood star Mark Wahlberg had to seek apology from Pope Francis for this film">When Hollywood star Mark Wahlberg had to seek apology from Pope Francis for this film</a></h2>
Martin Scorsese was always impressed with Pope Francis everytime he met him over the course of years. Calling his death a personal loss, the director added in his tribute, &ldquo;The loss for me runs deep &mdash; I was lucky enough to know him, and I will miss his presence and his warmth. The loss for the world is immense. But he left a light behind, and it can never be extinguished.&rdquo;
<h2 class="gh-archive-page-post-title"><a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/oprah-winfrey-chris-rock-and-other-celebrities-you-didnt-know-were-big-fans-of-pope-francis-8985661" aria-label="Oprah Winfrey, Chris Rock and other celebrities you didn't know were big fans of Pope Francis">Oprah Winfrey, Chris Rock and other celebrities you didn't know were big fans of Pope Francis</a></h2>
Martin Scorsese met with Pope Francis most recently in May 2023. At the time, the filmmaker announced that he would be making another film centered on Jesus. He had previously made films like 1988&rsquo;s The Last Temptation of Christ starring Willem Dafoe and 2016&rsquo;s Silence with Andrew Garfield.
The film is currently in works and will be an adaptation of Silence author Shūsaku Endō&rsquo;s novel A Life of Jesus. Martin Scorsese is penning the script alongside his longtime collaborator Kent Jones.
In addition to Martin Scorsese, other celebrities too paid a tribute to him.&nbsp;
<h2 class="gh-archive-page-post-title"><a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/farewell-to-pope-francis-a-look-back-at-his-moments-with-hollywood-icons-leonardo-dicaprio-to-katy-perry-8987241" aria-label="Farewell to Pope Francis: A look back at his moments with Hollywood icons &ndash; Leonardo DiCaprio to Katy Perry">Farewell to Pope Francis: A look back at his moments with Hollywood icons &ndash; Leonardo DiCaprio to Katy Perry</a></h2>

Entertainment World Pope Francis died at the age of 88. Pope Francis was a favourite of many Hollywood celebrities, from Oprah Winfrey to Mark Wahlberg and others.

Ace filmmaker Martin Scorsese mourned the death of Pope Francis as he remembered him as a “remarkable human being”. A regular at the Vatican, Martin Scorsese had met with Pope Francis on several occasions and every time had something great to say about him. Martin Scorsese's tribute to Pope Francis Honouring his legacy and work, Martin Scorsese told Variety in a statement, “There is so much that can be said about the significance of Pope Francis and everything he meant to the world, to the church, to the papacy. I will leave that to others.” “He was, in every way, a remarkable human being. He acknowledged his own failings. He radiated wisdom. He radiated goodness. He had an ironclad commitment to the good. He knew in his soul that ignorance was a terrible plague on humanity. So he never stopped learning. And he never stopped enlightening. And, he embraced, preached and practised forgiveness. Universal and constant forgiveness, “ he said. When Hollywood star Mark Wahlberg had to seek apology from Pope Francis for this film Martin Scorsese was always impressed with Pope Francis everytime he met him over the course of years. Calling his death a personal loss, the director added in his tribute, “The loss for me runs deep — I was lucky enough to know him, and I will miss his presence and his warmth. The loss for the world is immense. But he left a light behind, and it can never be extinguished.” Oprah Winfrey, Chris Rock and other celebrities you didn't know were big fans of Pope Francis Martin Scorsese met with Pope Francis most recently in May 2023. At the time, the filmmaker announced that he would be making another film centered on Jesus. He had previously made films like 1988’s The Last Temptation of Christ starring Willem Dafoe and 2016’s Silence with Andrew Garfield. The film is currently in works and will be an adaptation of Silence author Shūsaku Endō’s novel A Life of Jesus. Martin Scorsese is penning the script alongside his longtime collaborator Kent Jones. In addition to Martin Scorsese, other celebrities too paid a tribute to him. Farewell to Pope Francis: A look back at his moments with Hollywood icons – Leonardo DiCaprio to Katy Perry

Pope Francis' death is an 'immense loss for the world' says Martin Scorsese

pope-francis

Pope Francis, News on Pope Francis, stories on Pope Francis, articles on Pope Francis, Pope Francis stories at Wion, Pope Francis news, Pope Francis latest news