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Global Mourning Declared After Passing of Pope Francis: Speculation Begins on Papal Succession
VATICAN CITY – The world mourned the death of Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21, 2025, prompting widespread reflection on his legacy and fervent speculation regarding his successor. The pontiff’s demise occurred shortly after he delivered his annual Easter message and held a meeting with U.S. Vice President JD Vance. As Italy and the global Catholic community grieve the loss of their spiritual leader, attention is now turning to the selection process for the next Pope.
The announcement of Pope Francis’s death was made by Cardinal Kevin Farrell in a statement released by the Vatican. Cardinal Farrell stated, “This morning at 7:35 AM, Francis, the Bishop of Rome, returned to the house of the Father. His life exemplified the Gospel values of faithfulness, courage, and universal love, especially for the impoverished and marginalized.”
Further details regarding the Vatican’s transition and the process for choosing the next Pope are provided below.
Pope Francis’s Age at the Time of Death
Pope Francis was 88 years of age when he passed away.
Cause of Death and Health History of Pope Francis
While the official cause of Pope Francis’s death has not been publicly released, it is understood that his passing followed a period of declining health, marked by several respiratory illnesses. Earlier in his life, Pope Francis had a portion of a lung removed. In 2023, he received medical treatment for bronchitis, and again in early 2025, he was diagnosed with bilateral pneumonia.
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In addition to respiratory issues, Pope Francis underwent intestinal surgery to address diverticulitis, a condition causing colon inflammation. He also experienced mobility challenges in his later years, using a cane and wheelchair due to a knee ailment.
The Vatican’s Protocol Following the Death of the Pope
Upon the death of the Pope, established Vatican protocols are initiated. The first step involves a funeral service. In accordance with his directives, Pope Francis’s coffin will be displayed at St. Peter’s Basilica to allow public viewing and respects to be paid.
Subsequently, the College of Cardinals convenes to elect the next Pope in a process known as a conclave. During the interim period between the Pope’s death and the election of his successor, the College of Cardinals assumes governance of the Catholic Church.
Historically, papal conclaves have varied in length, lasting from several days to months. However, in modern times, these elections typically conclude within a few days.
Potential Successors: Who Will Be the Next Pope?
The selection of the next Pope typically draws from within the College of Cardinals, with a historical preference for European candidates. Reuters has identified the following individuals as potential contenders for the papacy:
- Jean-Marc Aveline, Archbishop of Marseille; 66 years old; French
- Cardinal Peter Erdo; 72 years old; Hungarian
- Cardinal Mario Grech, Secretary General of the Synod of Bishops; 68 years old; Maltese
- Cardinal Juan Jose Omella, Archbishop of Barcelona; 79 years old; Spanish
- Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican Diplomat; 70 years old; Italian
- Cardinal Luis Antonio Gokim Tagle; 67 years old; Filipino
- Cardinal Joseph Tobin, Archbishop of Newark, N.J.; 72 years old; American
- Cardinal Peter Kodwo Appiah Turkson, Vatican Official; 76 years old; Ghanaian
- Matteo Maria Zuppi, Archbishop of Bologna; 69 years old; Italian