At the stated hour of 6:00, the Pope awoke in good condition.
In the Closing Act of Pope Francis' Life
The world awakened to the news that Pope Francis has ended his journey on Earth. The announcement was made on Easter Monday by the papal chamberlain, Cardinal Kevin Farrell. "Brothers and sisters, with a heavy heart, I must announce the demise of our Holy Father Francis. Today, at 7:35 AM, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the Father's abode," the statement declared. The announcement of Pope Francis' passing has sent shockwaves and sorrow across the globe.
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As per the Italian newspaper "Corriere della Sera," the Pope awoke at 6 AM on Easter Monday, seemingly in good spirits. However, an hour later, the Pontiff expressed feelings of discomfort. His health quickly worsened, leading to a coma. At precisely 7:35 AM, the Argentine genius was officially declared deceased.
The Vatican confirmed on Monday evening that the Pope succumbed to a stroke. According to the released death certificate, the stroke led to a coma and a heart failure that proved irreversible.
Last Fervent Wishes
In accordance with his wishes, Pope Francis wanted to be laid to rest in the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome, rather than in the Vatican's St. Peter's Basilica, where many of his predecessors rest. In the document, the Pope made it clear: "The grave should be in the earth, unadorned, with the only inscription: Franciscus."
The Vatican published the will approximately twelve hours after the Pontiff's demise, as reported by Kathpress. The Pope authored the will on June 29, 2022, just before he had to postpone a planned expedition to Africa due to health concerns.
The Holy Father also wrote, "May the Lord reward those who have served me faithfully and continue to keep me in their prayers. I have dedicated my sufferings during the final phase of my life to the Lord, in pursuit of world peace and unity among nations." The will carries the signature: "Santa Marta, 29 giugno 2022, FRANCESCO."
The Vatican documents reveal the Pope's profound spiritual connection to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, an ancient Marian sanctuary where he would often meditate during his Apostolic Journeys[3]. The Pope desired a modest burial, with his remains placed in a burial niche situated between the Pauline Chapel (home of the Salus Populi Romani icon, which he held in high regard) and the Sforza Chapel[3].
Despite his wishes for modesty, his body lay in state in St. Peter's Basilica prior to the funeral, which took place in St. Peter's Square. This was a solemn tribute to his life and ministry[5]. After the lying in state, he was interred as per his wishes at Santa Maria Maggiore[2].
- In the midst of global sorrow, the Pope's last will reveals a chorus of health-and-wellness and science in his spiritual connection to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, where he desired a modest burial.
- Amidst the Papal Succession's twists, the Argentine Pope left science and health implications for the world in his final wishes, stipulating that he wanted his remains placed unadorned and dedicating his final sufferings to world peace.
