First Words of Acting Pope Released After the Death of Pope Francis

• Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, officially announced Pope Francis' passing, praising his lifelong dedication to faith and service
• Vatican officials confirmed that the late Pope's remains would be transferred to St. Peter’s Basilica, allowing the faithful to pay their final respects
• Meanwhile, preparations have begun for the first General Congregation of Cardinals, where funeral arrangements and succession discussions will take place

At 9:45 AM on April 21, Cardinal Kevin Farrell, acting Pope also known as Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, officially announced the death of Pope Francis as his first words, delivering a solemn statement from Casa Santa Marta.

He confirmed that at 7:35 AM, Pope Francis had passed away, dedicating his life to faith, service, and the Gospel’s teachings.

Expressing deep sorrow, Farrell praised the late pontiff’s commitment to universal love, courage, and support for the marginalised, commending his soul to God’s infinite mercy, Vatican reported.

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In his first word, he said:

"Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of His Church. He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage, and universal love, especially in favor of the poorest and most marginalized. With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite merciful love of the One and Triune God."

Speaking with Legit.ng, James Ochiji, a Catholic pastor based in Abuja also expressed his profound sorrow and condolences, acknowleging that the Pope lived an inspiring life:

"Upon learning about the passing of Pope Francis, I express profound sorrow and acknowledge the significant loss to the Catholic community. He was inspiration and may his soul find eternal peace."

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Pope Francis’ body to be moved to St. Peter’s basilica

Later that day, Matteo Bruni, Director of the Holy See Press Office, informed journalists that Pope Francis’ remains would likely be transferred to St. Peter’s Basilica on April 23.

The move would allow the faithful to pay their final respects, with precise arrangements to be determined after the first General Congregation of Cardinals on April 22.

Bruni also confirmed that on Monday evening, the rite of the certification of death was conducted at Casa Santa Marta, where Pope Francis resided. Cardinal Farrell validated the declaration, completing the traditional placement in the coffin ceremony.

Seals placed on Papal apartments

Following protocol, seals were placed on the late Pope’s living quarters, including the Apostolic Palace’s third floor and the second-floor apartment at Casa Santa Marta. Meanwhile, Pope Francis’ closest collaborators began paying their respects, marking the first steps in the mourning process.

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Preparations begin for funeral arrangements

The first General Congregation of Cardinals has been scheduled for April 22, where discussions will include funeral preparations and the official timeline for ceremonies.

The process of electing Pope Francis’ successor is expected to follow in the coming weeks.

Next Pope mentioned in over 800-year-old prophecy

Legit.ng earlier reported that following the death of Pope Francis on April 21, discussions surrounding a prophetic book that is over 800-year-old has resurfaced. In the ancient book, the next leader of the Catholic Church was prophesied and the end of the world.

The prophecy, attributed to Saint Malachy, consists of 112 cryptic Latin phrases that allegedly outline the papal succession from Celestine II in 1143 to the mysterious “Peter the Roman”, who is expected to preside in 2027.

Source: Legit.ng