Pope Francis Dies — Vatican Confirms
Today, April 21st, the heart of the Catholic world once again plunged into sorrow: 88-year-old Pope Francis passed away this morning in the Vatican. This was first reported by Reuters agency, citing the Vatican. here.
Pope Francis suffered from a severe illness — bilateral pneumonia in January of this year and was treated for 38 days at the "Gemelli" clinic in Rome. The hospital's doctors assessed his condition as "serious" several times.
However, a glimmer of hope appeared on February 23rd: on that day, the Pope made his first public appearance. From the balcony of his hospital room, he addressed the Christians, asking for prayers and spoke with strength. His voice was still weak, but his heart was filled with hope.
Pope Francis — Argentine Jorge Mario Bergoglio — has been working as Pope since 2013 and is the first Latin American and the first Jesuit Pope in history, leaving a significant mark in the Catholic world. He is known as a reformer, humble, and people-oriented Pope, making firm declarations on numerous topical issues, including migrants, climate change, and social equality.
The Pope's death will commence 9 days of mourning in the Vatican. This period, known as "interregnum" — the time without a Pope, will continue until the gathering of the cardinals — Conclave is called to elect the next Pope.
According to ancient scriptures believed by Catholics, the death of this Pope will start the apocalypse, and Jesus Christ will descend to Earth for the second time"
The death of the Pope is a tremendous loss for the Catholic world's 1.3 billion Christians. Francis's efforts to harmonize modernity with tradition will be long remembered.
This loss — is not only for Catholics but a spiritual lesson for all humanity. Life is fragile, and humility is the highest virtue.
Abdulla Sayyid
