Focus on the BIG picture.
Sunday, Jan 18, 2026
Outside the box.
Pope Francis: head of the Catholic church who pushed for social and economic justice
The pontiff passed away on Easter Monday following a stroke; preparations are underway for his funeral and the election of his successor.
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, died on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88, following a cerebral stroke and subsequent heart failure.
He passed away at 7:35 a.m. local time in his residence at the Domus Sanctae Marthae in Vatican City.
Prior to his death, Pope Francis had been hospitalized for 38 days due to double pneumonia and was discharged on March 23. Despite his health challenges, he made a final public appearance on Easter Sunday, delivering his annual blessing from a wheelchair.
In accordance with his wishes, Pope Francis will be buried in the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome, marking a departure from the tradition of papal burials at St. Peter’s Basilica.
His body is expected to lie in state at St. Peter’s Basilica starting Wednesday to allow the faithful to pay their respects.
The Vatican has initiated the period of sede vacante, during which the College of Cardinals will convene to elect a new pope.
The conclave is anticipated to begin between May 6 and May 11, though it may commence earlier if all cardinal electors are present.
Several cardinals are considered potential successors:
Cardinal Pietro Parolin (Italy): The Vatican’s Secretary of State, viewed as a moderate and continuity candidate.
Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle (Philippines): Known for his progressive views and advocacy for marginalized communities.
Cardinal Péter Erdő (Hungary): Represents conservative perspectives, particularly on immigration.
Cardinal Matteo Zuppi (Italy): Recognized for his work with marginalized groups and peace initiatives.
Cardinal Robert Sarah (Guinea): A staunch conservative and former head of the Congregation for Divine Worship.
Cardinal Joseph Tobin (USA): Known for his pastoral approach and advocacy for inclusion.
Cardinal Peter Turkson (Ghana): Vocal on climate and economic justice issues.
The upcoming conclave is expected to reflect the ideological divisions within the Church, as the cardinals deliberate on the future direction of the papacy.
He passed away at 7:35 a.m. local time in his residence at the Domus Sanctae Marthae in Vatican City.
Prior to his death, Pope Francis had been hospitalized for 38 days due to double pneumonia and was discharged on March 23. Despite his health challenges, he made a final public appearance on Easter Sunday, delivering his annual blessing from a wheelchair.
In accordance with his wishes, Pope Francis will be buried in the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome, marking a departure from the tradition of papal burials at St. Peter’s Basilica.
His body is expected to lie in state at St. Peter’s Basilica starting Wednesday to allow the faithful to pay their respects.
The Vatican has initiated the period of sede vacante, during which the College of Cardinals will convene to elect a new pope.
The conclave is anticipated to begin between May 6 and May 11, though it may commence earlier if all cardinal electors are present.
Several cardinals are considered potential successors:
Cardinal Pietro Parolin (Italy): The Vatican’s Secretary of State, viewed as a moderate and continuity candidate.
Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle (Philippines): Known for his progressive views and advocacy for marginalized communities.
Cardinal Péter Erdő (Hungary): Represents conservative perspectives, particularly on immigration.
Cardinal Matteo Zuppi (Italy): Recognized for his work with marginalized groups and peace initiatives.
Cardinal Robert Sarah (Guinea): A staunch conservative and former head of the Congregation for Divine Worship.
Cardinal Joseph Tobin (USA): Known for his pastoral approach and advocacy for inclusion.
Cardinal Peter Turkson (Ghana): Vocal on climate and economic justice issues.
The upcoming conclave is expected to reflect the ideological divisions within the Church, as the cardinals deliberate on the future direction of the papacy.
