In a moving essay written just two months before his passing, Pope Francis shared his thoughts on death, not as an end, but as a “new beginning.”
His reflections, penned on February 7, 2025, as he wrote a preface for Cardinal Angelo Scola’s book Awaiting a New Beginning: Reflections on Old Age, reveal a profound sense of peace.
The Pope, who passed away yesterday at the age of 88, welcomed the idea of eternal life with God rather than fearing the inevitable end of life.
A New Beginning
“Death is not the end of everything, but the beginning of something,” Pope Francis wrote in his preface.
He emphasized that we should not fear aging but rather embrace it with grace, living life fully without resentment.
For him, death marked the start of eternal life—a journey that those who love God begin to experience even on Earth.
He described this transition as a new beginning, a glimpse into eternity that would last forever.
His Final Days and Death
Pope Francis died after a series of health struggles, including a cerebral stroke that led to a coma and irreversible heart failure.
Earlier this year, he had been hospitalized for pneumonia, from which he had been recovering in his apartment.
His last public appearance was on Easter Sunday when he delivered a blessing and made his final public greeting to the faithful from his popemobile in St. Peter’s Square.
His death was confirmed by the Vatican in a ceremony held on the evening of his passing.
In line with tradition, his body was placed in an open wooden casket for the Confirmation of the Death of the Pontiff ceremony.
The next steps for the Church included the planning of his funeral and mourning period, with his funeral scheduled for Saturday at St. Peter’s Square.
The Funeral and Mourning Period
The Vatican has planned a public viewing of Pope Francis’ body starting tomorrow, with his funeral set for 10 am local time on Saturday.
Afterward, there will be nine days of official mourning, during which the cardinals will begin preparations for the conclave to elect his successor.
This period is known as novendiali, a time for reflection and prayer.
The cardinals also met today to select those who will assist during the “interregnum,” the time before a new pope is chosen.
These cardinals will manage the Vatican’s affairs until the election takes place.
The conclave, which traditionally begins between 15 and 20 days after the pope’s death, will be a crucial moment in determining the future of the Church.
The Election of a New Pope
The process of selecting a new pope begins with the conclave, where cardinals gather in the Sistine Chapel to vote in secret.
The voting process, which continues until a candidate receives two-thirds of the votes, involves intricate rituals, including the burning of ballots to signal the result—black smoke for no decision, and white smoke when a new pope is chosen.
The new pope will then appear on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, offering his blessing to the world.
Tributes and Global Mourners
The death of Pope Francis has sparked tributes from around the globe.
Leaders such as U.S. President Joe Biden, French President Emmanuel Macron, and others have confirmed their attendance at his funeral.
Several world leaders have expressed their admiration for his efforts to advocate for the marginalized, his moral leadership, and his compassion.
His passing also resonates deeply in countries with large Catholic populations.
In places like Italy and Argentina, where soccer games were suspended in his honor, Pope Francis was remembered for his simplicity, humanity, and deep connection to the people.
A Simple Burial, Honoring a Life of Humility
In his final will, Pope Francis requested a simple burial at St. Mary Major Basilica, a site of great personal significance.
He specifically asked for a modest tomb, with only the inscription “Franciscus.”
The expenses for his burial were arranged through an anonymous benefactor, as confirmed by the Vatican.
His remains will be interred near a sacred icon of the Virgin Mary, reflecting his lifelong devotion to the Blessed Mother.
The Future of the Church
As the world bids farewell to Pope Francis, attention turns to the future of the Catholic Church.
The process of selecting a new pope is already underway, with the cardinals preparing for the conclave.
While the world mourns, there is a sense of anticipation about the leadership that will follow this remarkable pontiff, known for his outreach to the marginalized and his commitment to peace and justice.