Filipino Cardinal Louis Antonio Gokim Tagle leads the fourth recitation of the Rosary in memory of Pope Francis at the Basilica of Saint Mary Major on Thursday evening, 24 April.
In an atmosphere filled with solemn reverence and heartfelt devotion, Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle led the faithful in the fourth evening Rosary to honor the memory of Pope Francis. The event took place on Thursday evening, 24 April 2025, at the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major in Rome. This iconic basilica, a cherished site of Marian devotion, has become the focal point for prayerful gatherings as the Catholic Church mourns the passing of its beloved pontiff.
A Prayerful Evening in Tribute
As the Basilica's majestic interior was bathed in soft, golden light, hundreds of faithful gathered, both from Rome and beyond, to join Cardinal Tagle in this significant act of prayer. The recitation of the Rosary was part of a series of spiritual activities organized in the days leading up to Pope Francis' funeral, which is scheduled for Saturday, 26 April. After the funeral, Pope Francis will be interred in this same Basilica, a testament to his deep devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Cardinal Tagle’s Reflective Homily
Before leading the Rosary, Cardinal Tagle delivered an emotionally resonant homily that reflected on the Gospel reading of the day. He cited the Risen Christ’s comforting words to His disciples, as recorded in the Gospel of Luke: “Why are you troubled? And why do questions arise in your hearts?” These words, spoken by Jesus to His disciples after His Resurrection, served as a foundation for the Cardinal’s reflections.
"Jesus encouraged them and helped open their hearts by explaining the Scriptures to free them from the fear of death," Cardinal Tagle said, his voice carrying the weight of deep faith and pastoral care. “These words of the Risen Christ are addressed to each of us to give hope and certainty to our lives, for the Master and Lord came to give us life, a life that will have no end.”
A Universal Call to Hope and Prayer
The Rosary’s meditative rhythm resonated deeply among those present, each decade of prayers echoing through the Basilica's grand halls. Cardinal Tagle’s words invited the faithful to unite their prayers for Pope Francis with a spirit of hope and trust in God’s eternal plan.
"In this spirit," Cardinal Tagle concluded, “we pray for our beloved Holy Father Francis, entrusting him to the tender hands of Mary Most Holy, Salus Populi Romani. May Mary, Gate of Heaven, pray for us.”
Pope Francis: A Legacy of Humility and Mercy
Pope Francis, who passed away earlier this week, leaves behind a profound legacy as the shepherd of a global flock. Known for his emphasis on mercy, humility, and care for the marginalized, his papacy transformed the Church’s relationship with modern society. His devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary was a cornerstone of his spirituality, making the Basilica of Saint Mary Major a fitting final resting place.
Throughout his pontificate, Pope Francis made numerous visits to this Basilica, especially before and after his apostolic journeys. His prayers before the icon of Salus Populi Romani, a revered image of the Virgin Mary, symbolized his reliance on her intercession and maternal care.
The Faithful Respond
The atmosphere in the Basilica was deeply moving as attendees recounted personal memories of Pope Francis and expressed their gratitude for his leadership. Pilgrims from all over the world lit candles, placed flowers, and offered silent prayers. Among them was Maria Elena, a devotee from Argentina, who said, "Pope Francis taught us how to live with love and compassion. Praying the Rosary here tonight feels like a way to honor his memory and continue his mission."
Looking Ahead
As the Catholic community prepares for the funeral on 26 April, the recitation of the Rosary remains a powerful way to unite in grief and faith. The prayers led by Cardinal Tagle serve as a reminder of the Church’s enduring hope in the Resurrection and the promise of eternal life.
Pope Francis’ funeral is expected to draw dignitaries, religious leaders, and faithful from across the globe, underscoring the universal impact of his life and ministry. In the coming days, the Basilica of Saint Mary Major will continue to be a sanctuary for those seeking solace, prayer, and a deeper connection to the man who served as a humble servant of God.
A Final Tribute
As the evening came to a close, Cardinal Tagle’s voice echoed one final plea to the Virgin Mary: "O Mary, our Mother, accompany our Holy Father to the eternal embrace of the Father. May your maternal love console all who grieve, and may your intercession guide us always closer to your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen."
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| VATICAN NEWS |
The faithful departed with hearts uplifted, carrying the memory of Pope Francis and the hope of the Resurrection into their lives. The Rosary, a simple yet profound prayer, had once again bound the global Church together in love and faith, honoring the life of a pope who sought to bring the light of Christ to every corner of the world
TODAYS FACTS:April 25th: Saints Mark, Evangelist, and Franca of Piacenza – Lights on the Journey of Faith. The Saint of the Day calendar, a daily chronicle of the saints celebrated by the Church, shines a light on the lives of exemplary Christians throughout history, offering inspiration and guidance on our spiritual journeys. Today, April 25th, we remember two remarkable figures: St. Mark, the Evangelist, and St. Franca of Piacenza.
St. Mark, Evangelist: A pivotal figure in the early Church, St. Mark is revered as one of the four Evangelists, his Gospel providing a vital account of the life, ministry, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Tradition holds that Mark was a close companion of St. Peter, possibly even his interpreter, and that he wrote his Gospel in Rome, addressing it to a Roman audience. His Gospel is known for its concise and action-oriented style, emphasizing the power and authority of Jesus. St. Mark's unwavering faith and dedication to spreading the Gospel serve as a powerful example for all believers. His life and work continue to inspire and guide Christians across the globe.
St. Franca of Piacenza (Franca Visalta), Abbess: Born into a noble family in Piacenza, Italy, St. Franca's life demonstrates unwavering commitment to religious service and reform. At a young age, she entered the Benedictine convent of St. Syrus, eventually rising to the position of Abbess. However, her attempts to restore discipline within the convent met with significant resistance.
Undeterred, St. Franca then became Abbess of the Cistercian abbey of Montelana, later transferring to Pittoli. Her dedication to monastic life and her courageous pursuit of reform, even in the face of opposition, highlight her strength of character and unwavering faith. St. Franca's life serves as a testament to the transformative power of faith and the enduring importance of pursuing spiritual renewal, even amidst adversity. Her death in 1218 marked the end of a life dedicated to service and spiritual growth.
The Saint of the Day calendar reminds us that holiness is not confined to a specific time or place but is a timeless quality found in individuals across cultures and eras. The lives of St. Mark and St. Franca, though separated by centuries, offer powerful examples of faith, dedication, and perseverance in the face of challenges. Their stories illuminate our own paths, inspiring us to live lives of purpose, integrity, and unwavering devotion to God. Their legacies continue to inspire countless individuals on their own journeys of faith.
Symphony of Mercy: A Global Thanksgiving for Pope Francis
A powerful call for peace and mercy will echo across the world today as the Symphony of Mercy takes center stage in Krakow, the Vatican, and six other continents. This extraordinary musical and religious event, blessed by Pope Francis earlier this year, serves not only as a prayerful plea for global unity but also as a heartfelt act of gratitude for the pontificate of the beloved Holy Father.
“This will be a Symphony for you, our dear Holy Father Francis!” proclaimed the organizers, expressing their deep appreciation for Pope Francis’ enduring commitment to compassion and mercy.
A Pilgrimage of Hope
Coinciding with the Jubilee of Hope, the Symphony of Mercy embodies a universal journey of faith and beauty. Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle highlighted the event's significance, calling it “a pilgrimage of hope through Divine Mercy.” Meanwhile, Cardinal Grzegorz Ryś of Łódź emphasized how the Symphony weaves together culture, aesthetics, and spirituality to inspire hearts worldwide.
A Global Cry for Peace
Polish entrepreneur and philanthropist Jan Mrowca, a driving force behind the Symphony, framed the event as a direct response to Pope Francis’ call for prayers for peace and mercy.
“Our loud and clear response to what is happening today comes from Krakow, Poland, from the tomb of St. Faustina. We will trustfully beg for Divine Mercy and for the gift of peace,” Mrowca declared.
A Worldwide Collaboration
Composed by acclaimed Polish musician Bartłomiej Gliniak, the Symphony draws on the powerful words of St. Faustina Kowalska. Scheduled from 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM on the eve of Divine Mercy Sunday, the event will originate from the Divine Mercy Shrine in Krakow-Łagiewniki, a site visited by popes including John Paul II, Benedict XVI, and Francis.
Through live telecasts, the Symphony will connect audiences in the Vatican and Divine Mercy shrines in Brazil, the USA, Tanzania, the Philippines, and Australia, uniting the faithful across six continents.
A Blessing from Pope Francis
The Symphony is spearheaded by the Terra Divina Foundation and the John Paul II Institute for Intercultural Dialogue. During a February meeting, Pope Francis personally endorsed the initiative, offering his blessing and encouragement.
“Francis has spent his life teaching us to practice mercy. This event is our way of thanking him for setting our hearts on fire,” said the organizers.
A Televised Plea for Unity
Featuring 200 performers, the Symphony of Mercy combines music, prayer, and a profound message of hope. Audiences around the globe can watch the event live on television and online, joining millions in a collective appeal for peace in these turbulent times.
As the world joins in this unique act of gratitude and intercession, the Symphony of Mercy stands as a testament to the enduring power of faith, art, and unity to heal a fractured world.
Pope Francis: The Man Who Held the World’s Stories
Vatican City – April 25, 2025
As the world mourns the loss of Pope Francis, his legacy is etched in the hearts of countless people across the globe. A man whose humility and compassion defined his pontificate, Pope Francis was not only a shepherd of faith but also a custodian of humanity’s stories.
Among the many moments that encapsulated his spirit, one stands out: a summer meeting in the Vatican with a small delegation to discuss peace in the Middle East. The encounter revealed not only Pope Francis’ unique ability to listen but also his profound understanding of the power of stories to foster peace.
A Symbol of Refuge
The delegation, comprising a Palestinian Christian, a Palestinian Muslim, and an Israeli Jew, met near the papal apartments in the Cortile del Belvedere. As they walked through the Vatican’s pristine corridors, one artwork caught their attention.
A two-meter crucifix made of transparent resin stood prominently in the entryway. Instead of Christ’s body, the cross bore an orange life jacket – a stark symbol of the global refugee crisis. It was a reminder of the lives lost at sea, a message that resonated deeply with Pope Francis’ call to embrace the marginalized.
“It became more than just a sculpture; it was a reflection of the man we were about to meet,” a delegate recalled.
Listening with Compassion
When the delegation entered the Pope’s chambers, they were struck by his presence. He greeted them warmly, expressing his deep appreciation for their work toward peace.
But it was his listening that left the most profound impression. As stories of occupation, genocide, and apartheid were shared, Pope Francis absorbed each word as if it were a sacred offering. “He accepted our pain as a gift, not to keep, but to carry forward,” one member noted.
Through an interpreter, the Pope offered words of hope: “You remind us that we still have light, even in the darkest moments,” he said. “The peacemakers must embrace one another first.”
A Message of Hope
Humor, too, found its place. When a delegate jokingly suggested he run for the U.S. presidency, the Pope smiled and replied, “I am not quite sure that it would be a benediction.”
As the meeting ended, the delegation left with renewed purpose. Passing the life jacket crucifix once more, they noticed a crack in the plaster above it, where rainwater had seeped in. “It was as if the outside was seeking the inside,” a delegate reflected, quoting Leonard Cohen: ‘There’s a crack in everything, that’s how the light gets through.’
A Legacy of Solidarity
The crucifix, though controversial to some, epitomized Pope Francis’ unwavering advocacy for the poor and marginalized. “He deified not poverty but the dignity and worth of those suffering,” a critic once conceded.
Pope Francis’ words from an earlier meeting with artists now resonate more than ever: “Do not forget the poor, those close to the heart of Christ, those affected by all of today’s many forms of poverty.”
As the world grieves, it also celebrates the life of a man who carried the weight of humanity’s stories, always seeking light in the cracks. His stories, his compassion, and his unwavering hope for a better world will remain a beacon for generations to come.
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Pope Francis' Humble Tomb: A Ligurian Legacy
Vatican City – In a poignant tribute to his heritage, the tomb of the late Pope Francis, located in the Basilica of St. Mary Major, is crafted from slate sourced from the Ligurian region of Italy, the homeland of his grandparents. The simple tomb, bearing only the inscription "Franciscus" and a replica of his pectoral cross, stands near the Altar of St. Francis, nestled between the Pauline Chapel and the Sforza Chapel.
Cardinal Rolandas Makrickas, co-Archpriest of the Basilica, revealed on television that the Pope had personally requested the Ligurian stone, a deeply personal choice reflecting his connection to his family's roots. This understated monument perfectly encapsulates the late Pope's humility and his enduring bond with his ancestral home.
The stone's journey mirrors that of his great-grandfather, Vincenzo Sivori, who emigrated from the small town of Cogorno in Liguria to Argentina in the 19th century, establishing a family that would eventually include Pope Francis' mother, Regina Maria Sivori. A commemorative plaque in Cogorno marks Vincenzo's departure, a tangible link to the Pope's Italian heritage.
The Mayor of Cogorno, Enrica Sommariva, expressed surprise at the Pope's request, highlighting the private nature of his connection to the region. Angela Sivori, a relative residing in Cogorno, described the emotional discovery of her kinship with the Pope, receiving a phone call from Buenos Aires and a family tree via email. Her daughter, Cristina, described the Pope's choice as "one last surprise," a beautiful testament to his family ties.
A family reunion occurred in Genoa in May 2017, where Pope Francis met his relatives, including Cristina and her mother, who was 87 at the time. Cristina recounted the last-minute nature of the meeting, arranged just three days prior, and the Pope's warm welcome, exclaiming, "At last, I meet the Sivoris!"
Franca Garbaino, President of the Ligurian Slate District, described the slate as "the people's stone," a material that embodies warmth and simplicity, aligning perfectly with the Pope's humble nature. The District has already prepared the stone slabs that will accompany the Pope in his eternal rest.
Cogorno's connection to the papacy extends beyond Pope Francis, with historical ties to Popes Innocent IV and Adrian V. The town's role in providing the stone for Pope Francis' tomb serves as a fitting conclusion to his earthly journey, reflecting his life of quiet dignity and profound connection to his family and heritage.
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Pope Francis' Coffin to be Sealed in Private Rite Ahead of Funeral
Vatican City – Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, will preside over the Rite of Sealing of Pope Francis' coffin on Friday evening. This private liturgical ceremony, attended by a select group of cardinals and Holy See officials, will conclude the public viewing period in St. Peter's Basilica, where tens of thousands have paid their respects to the late pontiff.
The Basilica has witnessed an outpouring of grief and remembrance since opening to the public on Wednesday morning. Over 50,000 people filed past the Altar of the Confession in the first 24 hours alone, a testament to the global impact of Pope Francis' papacy. The Basilica remained open late into the night on Wednesday and Thursday, closing briefly for a short period before reopening to accommodate the vast number of mourners.
The Office for the Liturgical Celebrations has specifically requested the attendance of several cardinals at Friday's sealing ceremony, including Cardinals Giovanni Battista Re, Pietro Parolin, Roger Mahony, Domenique Mamberti, Mauro Gambetti, Baldassare Reina, and Konrad Krajewski.
Archbishop Edgar Peña Parra, Archbishop Ilson de Jesus Montanari, Monsignor Leonardo Sapienza, the Canons of the Vatican Chapter, the Ordinary Minor Penitentiaries of the Vatican, Pope Francis' secretaries, and other individuals admitted by Archbishop Diego Ravelli, Master of Pontifical Liturgical Celebrations, will also assist in the rite.
Following the sealing, Pope Francis' funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, April 26th, at 10:00 AM in St. Peter's Square. This will commence the Novemdiales, a nine-day period of mourning and Masses for the repose of the late Pope's soul. Daily Novemdiales Masses will be celebrated at 5:00 PM (GMT +2) in St. Peter's Basilica, except for Divine Mercy Sunday, April 27th, when the Mass will take place at 10:30 AM in St. Peter's Square. The scale of the public response underscores the profound global impact of Pope Francis' legacy.
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A City in Mourning: Rome Remembers Pope Francis as Faithful Gather in Prayer
Rome, Italy – On the third night following the passing of Pope Francis on Monday morning, a palpable sense of grief hung heavy over Rome. Yet, amidst the sorrow, a beacon of faith and remembrance shone brightly within the Basilica of Saint Mary Major. Hundreds of mourners, their faces etched with a mixture of sadness and quiet reverence, gathered for a special Rosary service dedicated to the eternal repose of the late Pope's soul. Cardinal Reina leads Rosary at the Basilica of St Mary Major.
The liturgy, led by Cardinal Baldassare Reina, Archpriest of the Basilica of Saint John Lateran, provided a poignant moment of solace and shared grief. Cardinal Reina, his voice filled with both compassion and conviction, offered words of comfort and hope to the assembled faithful. He drew a powerful parallel between the disciples of Emmaus, whose eyes were initially blinded to the resurrected Christ, and the current emotional state of many mourners grappling with the loss of the beloved Pope.
"Often," Cardinal Reina began, his words resonating through the hallowed space, "our eyes too can be hindered from recognizing Jesus in moments of trial. The weight of sorrow, the unexpectedness of death, can cloud our vision, preventing us from seeing the enduring presence of faith and hope amidst the darkness."
His message subtly shifted from consolation to a profound theological reflection on the meaning of suffering and death in the light of the Easter resurrection. "The Easter experience," he explained, "brings a constantly new response to those who question the meaning of suffering and death. It reminds us that death is not the ultimate reality, but rather a passage to a greater, eternal life."
The Cardinal's words offered a powerful antidote to despair, a message of hope woven into the fabric of grief. He painted a vivid picture of the human heart, often wounded and seemingly extinguished by sorrow, only to be rekindled by the illuminating power of faith. "The heart, tested and extinguished," he stated emphatically, "begins to burn again only when we allow faith to illuminate it. Only when we allow the light of Christ to penetrate the darkness of our sorrow can we truly find peace and healing."
Cardinal Reina then extended an invitation to the faithful, urging them to embrace prayer as a source of strength and solace during this difficult time. He directed their attention to the Blessed Virgin Mary, invoking her title as "Salus Populi Romani" – the Salvation of the Roman People – and imploring her intercession.
"In this hour of sadness," he implored, his voice resonating with sincerity, "let us pray to the Blessed Virgin Mary, Salus Populi Romani, asking her to help us transform this pain into hope, and to believe that life – not death – is the final word. Let us ask her to guide us through this valley of tears, to strengthen our faith, and to illuminate our path towards the eternal light."
Concluding the poignant address, Cardinal Reina offered a simple yet powerful plea: "Mother of Hope," he concluded, his voice filled with reverence, "intercede for us." The collective murmur of "Amen" from the assembled mourners echoed through the Basilica, a testament to the shared faith and collective grief that united them in this solemn act of remembrance.
The Rosary that followed served as a tangible expression of this shared faith, a communal prayer weaving together individual sorrows into a tapestry of collective hope. The Basilica, usually a vibrant hub of activity, was transformed into a sanctuary of quiet contemplation, a space where the faithful could find comfort and strength in their shared faith and their shared loss. The atmosphere was one of profound respect, a testament to the enduring legacy of Pope Francis and the unwavering faith of those who mourned him. The night served as a powerful reminder of the enduring power of faith in the face of loss, a testament to the enduring spirit of the Catholic Church, and a poignant prelude to the upcoming funeral ceremonies.
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A Light in the Darkness: Cardinal Bo Remembers Pope Francis' Enduring Legacy
Yangon, Myanmar – The death of Pope Francis on April 21st has sent ripples of sorrow across the globe, but perhaps nowhere is the loss felt more keenly than in Myanmar, a nation the late pontiff held dear. In an exclusive interview with Vatican News, Cardinal Charles Maung Bo, Archbishop of Yangon and President of Myanmar's Bishops' Conference, painted a deeply personal and moving portrait of the late Pope, reflecting on his profound impact on the people of Myanmar and the world.
Cardinal Bo, himself the first-ever Cardinal of Myanmar, appointed by Pope Francis, recalled the Holy Father’s historic visit to the country in November 2017. This visit, he emphasized, was not merely a diplomatic engagement but a powerful act of solidarity with a nation grappling with immense challenges.
"Despite significant pressure from various quarters urging him not to visit our country," Cardinal Bo recounted, his voice tinged with emotion, "and despite the many challenges that loomed large, Pope Francis chose to come. And in doing so, he shone a great light upon the suffering of our people. His presence was a beacon of hope in a land shrouded in darkness."
The Cardinal's words resonated with the profound impact Pope Francis had on Myanmar. His visit transcended the usual diplomatic protocols; it was an act of profound compassion and a bold statement of support for a nation struggling under the weight of political turmoil and humanitarian crises.
"Pope Francis had a profound affection for the people of Asia," Cardinal Bo continued, his voice filled with admiration. "He fell in love with the people of Myanmar. He saw beyond the headlines, beyond the political complexities, and saw the inherent dignity and suffering of our people. He related to all, with the broken, the forgotten, and the earth itself. He made room in his heart for those the world pushed aside. And so now, as the world mourns him, we feel the sorrow that always follows great love."
This deep connection extended far beyond the single visit. Over the years, Pope Francis consistently championed the cause of Myanmar, issuing repeated appeals for peace and humanitarian aid. Even in the final days of his life, his concern for the nation remained unwavering. He expressed his profound condolences for those affected by the devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck Myanmar on March 28th, 2025, a tragedy that further compounded the existing humanitarian crisis.
The earthquake, which claimed the lives of 3,726 people as of April 19th, left 5,105 injured and 129 still missing, according to official figures. The disaster exacerbated an already dire situation, leaving nearly 20 million people in need of aid due to the ongoing civil conflict that has plagued the nation for years.
Pope Francis’ response to this catastrophe was immediate and heartfelt. He not only offered his prayers and condolences but also pledged support to provide much-needed sustenance to the suffering population. This action, Cardinal Bo stressed, was characteristic of the late Pope's unwavering commitment to the most vulnerable members of society.
"His actions spoke louder than words," Cardinal Bo reflected. "He didn't just offer prayers; he offered tangible support, demonstrating the concrete expression of his compassion. This is the legacy he leaves behind – a legacy of love, compassion, and unwavering solidarity with the suffering."
The Cardinal's words serve as a powerful testament to the profound impact Pope Francis had on Myanmar and its people. His visit, his consistent appeals, and his final act of compassion underscore his enduring legacy as a Pope who not only preached the Gospel but lived it, embodying the very essence of Christian love and solidarity with the marginalized and forgotten. His death is mourned deeply, but his legacy of hope and compassion will continue to inspire generations to come. The memory of his visit, a beacon of light in a time of darkness, will forever be etched in the hearts of the people of Myanmar.
Vatican Releases Official Cause of Death for Pope Francis: Stroke and Cardiocirculatory Collapse
Vatican City – The Holy See Press Office released an official medical report on Monday evening, revealing that the cause of Pope Francis' death was a stroke, leading to a coma and ultimately irreversible cardiocirculatory collapse. The report, signed by Dr. Andrea Arcangeli, Director of the Directorate of Health and Hygiene of the Vatican City State, provides a detailed account of the late Pope's final moments and underlying health conditions.
According to Dr. Arcangeli's certification, Pope Francis suffered a stroke, which induced a coma from which he did not recover. This ultimately resulted in a fatal cardiocirculatory collapse. The medical report further details a history of pre-existing conditions that contributed to his overall health status. These included acute respiratory failure caused by multimicrobial bilateral pneumonia, multiple bronchiectases, high blood pressure, and Type II diabetes.
The confirmation of death was established through electrocardiographic thanatography, a method used to definitively confirm the cessation of cardiac activity. Dr. Arcangeli's statement concluded with the formal declaration: “I hereby declare,” he wrote, “that the causes of death, to the best of my knowledge and judgment, are as stated above.”
The release of this official medical report brings closure to many regarding the circumstances surrounding the Pope's passing. It provides a clear and concise explanation of the medical factors that contributed to his death, offering a factual basis for understanding the events of his final days. The transparency displayed by the Vatican in releasing this information underscores its commitment to providing accurate and timely information to the public. The report allows for a more complete understanding of the health challenges faced by the late Pope and the sequence of events leading to his death.