Pope Francis died from a stroke; Vatican confirms. His will requests a simple burial. Conclave to choose successor.

The Vatican announced that Pope Francis passed away due to a stroke, which led to a coma and subsequently heart failure. Dr. Andrea Arcangeli, the head of the Vatican’s health department, confirmed his death on Monday. Pope Francis, who had long struggled with chronic lung disease and had a portion of one lung removed in his youth, was hospitalized earlier this year for 38 days after a respiratory crisis developed into double pneumonia.

As the death of a pope prompts a series of meticulously planned rituals, the selection of the next pope remains pending. Eligible cardinals will eventually convene in the Sistine Chapel to vote for a papal successor in a process known as “the Conclave.”

On the same day, the Vatican released Pope Francis’ final will and spiritual testament, which was written on 29 June 2022. In this brief document, Pope Francis expressed his wish to be buried in a simple underground tomb with only the inscription “Franciscus” at St. Mary Major Basilica. This location holds significant meaning for the late pontiff, as it houses his favorite icon of the Virgin Mary, to whom he was deeply devoted. Pope Francis also expressed his gratitude to those who had prayed for him and requested ongoing prayers. He concluded by stating, “The suffering that became present in the latter part of my life, I offered it to the Lord for world peace and brotherhood among peoples.”