Pope Francis, the leader of 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide since March 2013, died on Easter Monday at the age of 88 after battling various ailments, the Vatican confirmed.
He passed away at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta, following a prolonged illness. Throughout his 12-year papacy, he faced numerous health challenges, with severe complications arising in recent weeks.
Pope Francis died from a stroke and irreversible heart failure, according to Vatican doctor Andrea Arcangeli, who issued the death certificate on Monday. The certificate, published by the Vatican, stated that the pope had fallen into a coma before passing away early on Monday.
Widely regarded as a voice for the poor, Pope Francis made history in 2013 as the first Latin American pontiff. He was also one of the oldest popes in the Church’s history.
The Argentine pontiff had spent 38 days being treated for double pneumonia at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital before seemingly recovering and leaving the facility on March 23.
His death came just one day after he delighted worshippers at the Vatican on Easter Sunday with an appearance on the balcony of Saint Peter’s Basilica.
His passing now sets in motion centuries-old traditions, culminating in the gathering of a conclave of cardinals to choose his successor.
The Pope’s death came just a day after Easter celebrations. The pontiff had on Sunday called for freedom of thought and tolerance in his Easter Sunday address.
His speech read, “There can be no peace without freedom of religion, freedom of thought, freedom of expression and respect for the views of others.”
India to observe 3-day state mourning
The Indian government on Monday announced a three-day state mourning as a mark of respect for the passing of Pope Francis, of these, two days will be observed on April 22 and 23, and the third on the pontiff’s funeral day.
The Ministry of Home Affairs, in a statement, said, “His Holiness Pope Francis, Supreme Pontiff of the Holy See passed away on April 21. As a mark of respect, three-day state mourning shall be observed throughout India.”
As per the schedule, the two days of state mourning will be April 22, Tuesday, and April 23, Wednesday. The third day of state mourning will be observed on the day of Pope Francis’ funeral, the statement added.
During this period, the national flag will be flown at half-mast throughout India on all buildings where the Tricolour is flown regularly, and there will be no official entertainment.
PM Modi remembers Pope Francis as a beacon of compassion and hope
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has condoled the demise of Pope Francis. In a social media post, the Prime Minister said Pope Francis will always be remembered as a beacon of compassion, humility, and spiritual courage by millions across the world. Mr. Modi added that Pope Francis diligently served the poor and downtrodden and ignited a spirit of hope among those who suffered.
Nagaland Governor La Ganesan mourns
Nagaland Governor La Ganesan expressed sadness over the demise of Pope Francis, describing him as a revered spiritual leader whose life exemplified humility, compassion, and unwavering faith.
“As the Head of the Catholic Church, he championed the cause of peace, social justice and care for the poor and the marginalized. His leadership inspired millions across the world, transcending boundaries of faith and culture,” Ganesan said.
“On behalf of the people of Nagaland and on my own behalf, I offer my heartfelt condolences to the Catholic community and all who mourn his passing,” he added.
CM Neiphiu Rio pays tribute
Chief Minister of Nagaland, Dr. Neiphiu Rio, has expressed sadness over the demise of Pope Francis. In a social media post, Dr. Rio stated that with a heavy heart, he joins the world in mourning the passing of His Holiness, Pope Francis. He said that as a shepherd of peace, the Pope’s humility, wisdom, and compassion transcended faiths.
Bishop of Kohima mourns
The Bishop of Kohima, Most Reverend Dr. James Thoppil, has expressed deep sorrow at the passing of Pope Francis. A condolence message from the Bishop stated that Pope Francis dedicated his life to spreading the Gospel, championing the cause of the poor and marginalized, and calling the world to embrace compassion, justice, and care for creation.