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[QUOTE="Munyaradzi Mafaro, post: 35247, member: 636"]
The Vatican shared images of Pope Francis inside an open coffin, confirming his death at age 88. Medical experts determined that a cerebral stroke and heart failure caused his passing. Cardinal Kevin Ferrell announced Francis returned to the Father at 7:35 that morning, marking the end of his spiritual leadership.

Francis had recently been hospitalized for bronchitis and pneumonia, spending 38 days at Gemelli Hospital in Rome. He was discharged on March 23 and appeared publicly on Easter Sunday, blessing crowds from his popemobile. Shortly after his public appearance, Vatican officials announced his death.

The pontiff's spiritual testament revealed his wish to be buried in a simple underground tomb at St. Mary Major Basilica. He specifically requested to rest in the ancient Marian sanctuary where he often prayed before and after apostolic journeys. An unnamed benefactor will cover his burial expenses, continuing Francis's commitment to humility.

Two people close to Francis reportedly heard him say he might not survive his severe lung disease. His final public appearance showed a frail pope greeting thousands of worshippers in St. Peter's Square. The crowd cheered as he blessed babies and appeared on the basilica balcony.

Francis's death marks the end of a 12-year papacy that touched 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide. His passing triggers traditional Vatican rituals and the preparation for selecting a new pope. The Catholic Church begins a period of mourning for its beloved spiritual leader.
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