This morning, people globally received the heartbreaking news of Pope Francis’s passing. On Easter Monday, the Vatican shared the somber announcement regarding the Pope’s death.
In celebration of Easter, hundreds of thousands had journeyed to Rome to be present at the Vatican, many of whom were there on Sunday for the Pope’s final public appearance.
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On Easter Sunday, Pope Francis made a brief appearance at St. Peter’s Square to commemorate the special day. Due to his recent health struggles with double pneumonia, a high-ranking cardinal led the Mass instead.
Cardinal Angelo Comastri officiated the service in front of tens of thousands of Catholic followers. Pope Francis appeared on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, taking the opportunity to wish everyone a “Happy Easter” and to bless the gathered crowd.
Typically, the Pope delivers the traditional “Urbi et Orbi” (“To the City and the World”) message during this occasion, but this year it was presented by a Vatican archbishop as the Pope was in a wheelchair.
The Pope’s address covered several significant issues, leaving a lasting impact. He spoke about the alarming rise of antisemitism worldwide and condemned the dire situation in Gaza, reiterating his plea for a ceasefire.
I reflect on the people of Gaza, especially the Christian community, who are enduring a devastating conflict that brings ongoing death and destruction, leading to a dire humanitarian crisis. This sentiment was expressed in what would be the pope’s last Easter message.
In his address, he advocated for religious freedom and the importance of respecting differing opinions, highlighting that true peace cannot be achieved without these principles.
“Peace cannot exist without freedom of religion, freedom of thought, freedom of expression, and respect for others’ viewpoints,” the message stated. Following the address, the pope was seen being driven through the crowd in an open-top vehicle.
The pope passed away at the age of 88. He had been frequently hospitalized in recent times, having spent a month at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital before being discharged four weeks ago.
Even after his release, doctors recommended that he take additional time to recuperate from a serious illness he had been facing.
Due to his declining health, the pope was unable to participate in most of the Holy Week events for the first time since his election in 2013. This included missing the Stations of the Cross at the Colosseum on Friday and the Easter vigil at Saint Peter’s Basilica on Saturday, where he entrusted his responsibilities to cardinals.
He also skipped the foot-washing ceremony on Thursday, which symbolizes Jesus Christ washing the feet of his disciples.
However, on Saturday, he did make a short appearance to greet visitors.
Pope Francis leaves behind a remarkable and lasting legacy. He will be remembered for his integrity and faith for many years to come.
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