“Pope Francis dies of stroke, heart failure” – Vatican

Pope Francis, the beloved head of the Roman Catholic Church, has reportedly died following complications from a stroke and heart failure, the Vatican revealed.

The pontiff passed away peacefully at his residence in Casa Santa Marta in the Vatican, just a day after celebrating Easter and blessing thousands of faithful during Easter Mass.

According to the Vatican’s statement, Pope Francis had suffered a stroke that led to a coma and ultimately caused irreversible heart failure.

His death comes after a prolonged battle with pneumonia and other health complications that kept him hospitalised for 38 days at the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital in Rome.

“Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow, I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis,” said Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church.

“His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of His Church. He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage, and universal love.”

Simple burial

In keeping with his humble lifestyle, Pope Francis had requested a simple burial.

The Vatican has announced that his remains will be transferred to St. Peter’s Basilica for public veneration, with burial likely to take place on Wednesday, April 23.

“The funeral rites will reflect the faith of the Church in the Risen Christ, not the worldly power of its leader,” said Archbishop Diego Ravelli, Master of Apostolic Ceremonies.

Catholic doctrine requires a Pope to be buried within four to six days of death. The Vatican confirmed preparations are in motion, and faithful across the world are already paying tribute.

Global Leaders React

Nigeria: President Bola Ahmed Tinubu described the Pope’s passing as a “sacred return to his maker,” saying:

“Today, with a heavy heart, I join the Catholic faithful and Christians worldwide in mourning… a humble servant of God, tireless champion of the poor and guiding light for millions.”

USA: Vice President JD Vance said:

“My heart goes out to the millions of Christians… I was happy to see him yesterday, though he was obviously very ill.”

Israel: President Isaac Herzog praised the Pope’s commitment to interfaith dialogue.

Iran: Foreign Ministry spokesman, Esmail Baqaei, offered condolences to all Christians.

“My colleagues have just informed me of the news… I offer my condolences to all Christians around the world.”

France: President Emmanuel Macron hailed him as a defender of the vulnerable and peace.

Spain: PM Pedro Sanchez highlighted his legacy of justice and compassion.

“I am sorry to hear of the death of Pope Francis. His commitment to peace, social justice and the most vulnerable leaves a profound legacy. Rest in peace,” the Socialist leader wrote on X.

Italy: PM Giorgia Meloni stated:

“A great man has left us. Pope Francis has returned to the Father’s home. It is deeply sad news, because a great man has left us.”

Germany: Chancellor Friedrich Merz praised his humility and advocacy for justice.

Ireland: PM Michael Martin recalled the Pope’s apology during his 2018 visit over child abuse scandals.

India: PM Narendra Modi wrote:

“Pope Francis will always be remembered as a beacon of compassion, humility and spiritual courage by millions across the world. I fondly recall my meetings with him and was greatly inspired by his commitment to inclusive and all-round development,” the Hindu-nationalist leader said in a statement.

Egypt: President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi called him a “voice of peace, love, and a defender of the Palestinian cause.”

Ethiopia: PM Abiy Ahmed wrote:

“May his legacy of compassion, humility, and service to humanity continue to inspire generations.”

In Paris, the bells of Notre-Dame Cathedral tolled 88 times—one for each year of his life.

Race to Replace Him

With the Pope’s death, the Catholic Church has entered the sede vacante period — Latin for “the seat being vacant.”

A conclave of eligible cardinals will soon gather inside the Sistine Chapel to elect a new pope.

Ten cardinals are reportedly in the running, including:

1. Cardinal Peter Turkson (Ghana) – Head of Pontifical Academies of Sciences
2. Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle (Philippines) – Prominent progressive voice
3. Cardinal Pietro Parolin (Italy) – Vatican Secretary of State
4. Cardinal Péter Erdő (Hungary) – Primate of Hungary
5. Cardinal Raymond Leo Burke (USA) – Conservative leader
6. Cardinal Matteo Zuppi (Italy) – Archbishop of Bologna
7. Cardinal Willem Eijk (Netherlands) – Archbishop of Utrecht
8. Cardinal Mario Grech (Malta) – Secretary General, Synod of Bishops
9. Cardinal Angelo Scola (Italy) – Archbishop of Milan
10. Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa (Italy) – Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem