Pope Francis dies – what caused his death, who paid tribute, and who will become the next Pontiff

DDM News

Pope Francis, leader of the Roman Catholic Church since 2013, has passed away at the age of 88.

Diaspora digital media (DDM) gathered that his death follows a prolonged illness, during which he battled pneumonia and a complex respiratory infection.

Vatican officials confirmed his passing early this morning, although the exact cause of death is yet to be officially confirmed.

The Vatican spokesman shared the sorrowful news with the faithful worldwide.

“Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis,” the statement began.

“At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father.”

The statement praised the late Pontiff for his lifelong devotion to the service of God and the Catholic Church.

It described him as a man who led with humility, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to the Gospel.

Francis was widely known for his deep concern for the poor, the marginalized, and the forgotten.

His efforts to bring attention to inequality, injustice, and suffering earned him admiration across the globe.

The Church expressed immense gratitude for his leadership and described him as a true disciple of Christ.

Tributes have already begun pouring in from world leaders, religious figures, and ordinary citizens.

President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola, mourned the Pope’s passing with heartfelt words.

“Europe mourns the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis,” she stated.

“His contagious smile captured millions of people’s hearts across the globe.”

She described him as “The People’s Pope,” whose love for peace, compassion, and equality touched the world.

She added that he would be remembered for his hope, humility, and powerful message of social justice.

Though he had been ailing for some time, it was only recently that his condition was publicly addressed.

On Tuesday, February 18, the Vatican announced that Pope Francis had been diagnosed with bilateral pneumonia.

Doctors also prescribed cortisone and antibiotics for asthmatic bronchitis.

Despite receiving medical attention, the illness continued to weaken him over the following weeks.

His absence from several scheduled events had raised concerns among the faithful and the public alike.

Now, with his death, the Church faces the solemn task of selecting a new spiritual leader.

According to Catholic tradition, only cardinals under the age of 80 are eligible to participate in the conclave.

As of January 22, 2025, a total of 138 cardinals qualify to vote in the papal election.

The election process begins with the “Pro eligendo Romano Pontifice” Mass in the Vatican.

This special Mass is held to pray for divine guidance in choosing the next pope.

Later that day, the cardinals enter the Sistine Chapel, where the conclave officially begins.

Each cardinal writes the name of their chosen candidate on a secret ballot.

The Latin phrase Eligo in summum pontificem, meaning “I elect as Supreme Pontiff,” is printed on the ballot.

Appointed scrutineers collect and count the votes after each round of balloting.

If no candidate receives the required two-thirds majority, additional votes are held.

Once a cardinal is elected pope, white smoke is released from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel.

The bells of St. Peter’s Basilica also ring to signal that a new pope has been chosen.

Shortly afterward, the newly elected pope emerges to address the public for the first time.

The Church and the world now await the arrival of a new spiritual leader to continue Francis’s mission.

Pope Francis leaves behind a lasting legacy as a humble, progressive voice in the Church.

He consistently advocated for the poor, promoted peace, and urged global cooperation in addressing inequality.

His reign as Pontiff will be remembered for bringing the Church closer to the people.

Through his actions and words, he redefined the papacy for a new generation of believers.

As the world grieves, many reflect on the values and vision Pope Francis stood for.

His impact on the Catholic Church and the global community will remain unforgettable for years to come.

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