Shocked to learn that His Holiness Pope Francis died this morning, April 21, from a stroke. He was 88. Just yesterday, Easter Sunday, he showed up at St. Peter's Basilica and greeted the faithful. He seemed to be okay. According to the Vatican News, in the early morning of Easter Monday, the Holy Father had a stroke that resulted in a coma.
On March 27, Pope Francis was discharged from the hospital in Rome after more than one month of confinement due to double pneumonia. Thought he could survive the disease, but maybe that's just how things should end. Praying for the eternal repose of His Holiness' soul.
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| Both now dead. Pope Francis and President Noynoy Aquino of the Philippines in January 2015 |
I first saw Pope Francis in January 2015, when he visited the Philippines. The purpose of his Apostolic Visit was to meet the victims of Typhoon Yolanda in Tacloban. I attended the Papal Mass he celebrated in the Quirino Grandstand despite being drenched in rain.
Pope Francis was known for his deep humility, love for the poor, advocacy for peace, his effort to protect the vulnerable, the children, and promote peace. He was known as the Church reformer for the many reforms he introduced during his Papacy.
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| Pope Francis during his visit to the Philippines, 2015 |
The Pope wanted the Catholic Church to be relatable in the modern world because there are so many faithful who have already left the church and switched to another religion due to some Catholic practices that are no longer meaningful and unrelatable. His reforms were unpopular among traditionalists and conservative Catholics, but they endeared him to millions of Catholics around the world.
In his death, I am hoping his successor will continue his reforms. I like the way Pope Francis handled the universal church during his 12-year papacy. He was a Progressive Pope, and he made the Catholic Church a living church, a relatable one. he was an effective messenger of peace, so I am hoping a Cardinal who is also a Progressive will succeed him. The Conclave to elect a new Pope will be held on May 7, 2025.
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| Cardinal Luis Tagle and Pope Francis |
Choosing a new pope is crucial because he is not only the head of the Catholic Church but also the head of state of Vatican City. The role of the pope in world peace is so important because most world leaders have never really bothered to bridge the gaps between nations when it comes to peace and important social issues.
Pope Francis collaborated with the United Nations on so many issues, such as climate action, sustainable development, and peace efforts. Pope Francis's last act before he was hospitalized in February was to hold a World Summit for Children's Rights in the Vatican. It was attended by different sectors and dignitaries. Queen Rania of Jordan and Princess Madeleine of Sweden were present.
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