The world was shaken by the news — Pope Francis has passed away. The Vatican officially confirmed his death on April 21. According to media reports, doctors found the pontiff in a coma with his eyes open and stated that he died quickly and without significant suffering. Details remain scarce, but it’s known that he will be buried on April 26.
Where Will Pope Francis Be Buried?
Francis will be laid to rest in the Vatican Grottoes — the underground part of St. Peter’s Basilica, where many former popes are buried. His body will lie in state in the basilica for several days to allow people to pay their respects. The funeral mass will be held in St. Peter’s Square, drawing cardinals from around the world. The burial ceremony itself will follow tradition and be held in a private format.
Who Will Be the Next Pope?
All eyes now turn to the conclave — the closed-door gathering of cardinals in the Sistine Chapel where the next pope will be elected. The process may take anywhere from a few days to a week. Until then, the Catholic Church will be temporarily led by the Camerlengo — a high-ranking official in the Vatican.
Potential successors include:
- Cardinal Matteo Zuppi (Italy) — a supporter of peace and dialogue, involved in Ukraine negotiations, and ideologically close to Francis.
- Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle (Philippines) — charismatic and approachable, one of Asia’s most beloved church figures, often called the “Asian Francis.”
- Cardinal Péter Erdő (Hungary) — more conservative, known for upholding traditional Church teachings.
Another name being mentioned is Sviatoslav Shevchuk, head of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church. Though not a cardinal (and thus technically ineligible), his leadership during the war and humanitarian voice have made him a symbol of resilience and faith. His candidacy is unlikely, but the mere fact that a Ukrainian pope is being discussed is historic.
What Happens Next?
Roughly 15–20 days after the Pope’s death, the conclave will begin. It follows strict traditions. As long as black smoke rises from the chimney above the Sistine Chapel, it means a new pope has not been elected. White smoke signals that a new pope has been chosen. That’s when the famous phrase will ring out: “Habemus Papam!” — “We have a Pope!”
The Prophecy of Saint Malachy: Fact or Legend?
The Pope’s death has reignited interest in the ancient Prophecy of Saint Malachy. According to legend, in the 12th century, Irish Archbishop Malachy wrote a list of 112 Latin phrases, each supposedly describing a future pope. The list wasn’t published until 1595, and many believe the descriptions eerily match real pontiffs.
Pope Francis is said to be the 112th and final pope on the list. His phrase: Petrus Romanus — Peter the Roman. The final line is ominous:
“In the final persecution of the Holy Roman Church, there will reign Peter the Roman, who will feed his flock amid many tribulations. After that, the city of seven hills shall be destroyed, and the dreadful Judge will judge the people. The end.”
“City of seven hills” is a traditional name for Rome.
This has sparked intense debate: is it coincidence, or a real prophecy? Some modern interpreters even point to 2027 as a potential date for Judgment Day, based on esoteric calculations and biblical parallels.
However, most theologians consider the prophecy a later hoax, created in the 16th century to legitimize a specific pope. Historians note that the phrases are highly accurate up to the 74th pope (in the 1500s), but grow vague and forced afterward.
Online, new theories are emerging — from religious debates to apocalyptic speculation. For some, it’s a myth. For others, a warning. And for many, a reason to reflect on what’s happening in the world.
Why Has the Pope’s Death Caused Such a Stir?
Francis was a pope for a new era — humble, open, and compassionate. He championed climate action, social justice, mercy, and the fight against poverty. His passing is seen not just as the end of a papacy, but as the close of an entire chapter in history.
In a time of global anxiety, wars, climate disasters, and uncertainty, many are once again turning to mysticism and prophecy. People are searching for answers — even in ancient texts.
Today, the world watches the Vatican. Some with sorrow. Some with hope. And others with the feeling that something new is about to begin.
