Just weeks into his historic papacy, Pope Leo XIV — the first U.S.-born leader of the Catholic Church — is already earning high marks from American Catholics. But a new AP-NORC poll shows many across the country are still getting to know him.

According to the survey, about two-thirds of American Catholics say they view Pope Leo favorably, with fewer than 1 in 10 expressing a negative opinion. However, roughly 3 in 10 Catholics admit they don’t yet know enough about him to say either way.

Among the general public, views are also largely positive — for those who’ve formed an opinion. The poll found that 44% of U.S. adults overall have a favorable impression of the new pope, while a similar number say they’re still unsure. Again, only about 1 in 10 express an unfavorable view.

A Pope with Bipartisan Appeal

Despite America’s deep political divides, Pope Leo is making inroads across party lines. Roughly half of Democrats and about 4 in 10 Republicans and independents say they view him favorably. Republicans are more likely to say they’re still undecided — but they’re not more likely to view him negatively. Across the political spectrum, only about 1 in 10 express an unfavorable opinion.

For many, hope springs from the idea that Pope Leo can bridge divides — both inside and outside the Church.

“I’m optimistic. Certainly, the first pope from the United States is significant,” said Terry Barber, a 50-year-old Democrat from Sacramento, California. He’s hoping for “a more progressive and modern church,” and believes Leo might bring some fresh ideas even while staying rooted in tradition.

On the other side of the aisle, Victoria Becude, a 38-year-old Republican from Florida, said she’s also hopeful. “I’m rooting for him,” she said. “I hope that America can get back to faith, and I hope he can do that.”

Unity Over Division

One of Pope Leo’s early promises has been to foster unity in a Church that has struggled with internal polarization in recent years. That message appears to be resonating. The poll shows no major partisan divide among Catholics themselves, with many expressing hope that Leo can move past the tensions of Pope Francis’ tenure.

He’s already begun to send signals about his priorities. Recently, he spoke out against rising nationalist movements, calling instead for “reconciliation and dialogue.” It’s a message that echoes his pledge to position the Church as a global symbol of peace.

As Cardinal Robert Prevost, Pope Leo was instrumental in one of Pope Francis’ major reforms: appointing women to the Vatican board that vets bishop nominations. While he’s maintained traditional teachings that women cannot be ordained as priests, his support for women in leadership roles is seen by many as a step forward.

“I expect he’ll continue promoting women in governance roles,” said Donald Hallstone, a 72-year-old Catholic from Oregon. “Women were not excluded in the first centuries. It’d be great to see them in those roles again.”

Diverse Hopes — and Some Contradictions

While some Catholics hope Pope Leo will push the Church in a more modern direction, others are hoping for a return to stricter doctrine — particularly on issues like same-sex marriage and abortion.

Becude, the Republican from Florida, for example, supports Pope Leo’s stance on marriage being between a man and a woman. But she diverges from Church teaching when it comes to abortion.

“I don’t believe that they should stop women from having abortions,” she said. “We should have our own rights, because you don’t know the circumstances behind the reason why a woman would want one in the first place.”

The mixed expectations underscore the balancing act Pope Leo faces: staying true to Church doctrine while responding to a rapidly changing world and increasingly diverse flock.

Younger Americans Still Forming Opinions

Not surprisingly, many Americans outside the Catholic Church — including Protestants and the religiously unaffiliated — haven’t yet formed strong opinions about Pope Leo. Around half of born-again Protestants, mainline Protestants, and religious “nones” say they don’t know enough about him to decide.

Still, younger Americans tend to be more cautious in forming opinions. Only about 4 in 10 adults under 30 say they have a favorable view of Pope Leo — but they’re also not hostile, with just 1 in 10 expressing a negative view.

For some, like Mercedes Drink, 31, a nonreligious woman from Minnesota who grew up in the pope’s hometown of Chicago, Pope Leo represents potential for positive change.

“I like him because he brings something different,” she said. “As a young woman, I hope he can bring change … open the world’s eyes to modernizing the church, bringing more people in, having more diversity.”

A Papacy Just Beginning

For now, Americans seem open-minded — even cautiously hopeful — about the direction Pope Leo XIV might take the Catholic Church. With relatively few detractors and many still undecided, his early months offer a rare window of goodwill.

But as his agenda comes into focus, opinions are likely to evolve. Whether he leans into reform or tradition, Pope Leo’s papacy will almost certainly shape the future of American Catholicism — and its place in the modern world.

Source: AP News – What US adults think about Pope Leo XIV, according to a new AP-NORC poll

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The anticipation was high in St. Peter’s Square on May 7, 2025, as thousands gathered to witness the first major moment in the papal conclave. But as the clock ticked past 9:00 PM, the iconic black smoke rose from the Sistine Chapel’s chimney, signaling that the first ballot had concluded—and no Pope had been elected.

A Long Wait for the Crowd

Roughly 45,000 people had gathered in St. Peter’s Square, eagerly awaiting the results of the first vote. While many expected an announcement shortly after 7:00 PM, the crowd had to endure an extra two hours of suspense before the smoke rose, indicating the first round of voting had ended without a decision.

A Global Moment of Prayer

Among the many faithful in the square was Deacon Nicholas Nkoronko from Tanzania. He shared his thoughts with Vatican News, emphasizing the universal role of prayer during the conclave: “Our role here is to pray and to join with other Christians, other Catholics, to pray for the Holy Spirit to guide the whole process.”

Regardless of the geographical origin of the new Pope, Deacon Nkoronko stressed, “We need a holy Pope. We need a Pope who will guide the Church and will be the pastor of the Church.”

Looking Ahead

The conclave’s journey is just beginning, with cardinals set to continue the process of electing the 267th Pope. As they deliberate, the world watches and prays for the guidance of the Holy Spirit to choose a new leader for the Catholic Church.

Stay tuned for updates as the conclave continues, with hopes high for the Church’s next chapter.

Source: Vatican News – Black smoke signals end of first day of conclave

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ROME (AP) — Bernat Armangué, an Associated Press photographer with nearly 20 years of experience, has had a front-row seat to some of the world’s most significant events. His career has taken him across the globe, from the Middle East to South Asia, and now Spain, capturing the moments that shape history. In 2023, his work documenting the war in Ukraine earned him a Pulitzer Prize, adding to his list of prestigious accolades, including a World Press Photo award, the Robert F. Kennedy Journalism Award, and multiple Overseas Press Club awards.

But for Armangué, sometimes the most striking images come not from hours of searching for the perfect shot but from a single, fleeting moment. One such moment occurred during the funeral of Pope Francis—a photograph that has since become one of his most powerful and evocative.

The Moment Behind the Shot

This photograph is part of AP’s extensive coverage of Pope Francis’s funeral. Armangué arrived in Rome shortly after the news of the Pope’s death, capturing the full scope of the event—from the faithful queuing to pay their respects, to the security measures in place, and the waves of tourists and pilgrims who documented the moment with their smartphones. But it was at the funeral site, in a small basilica outside St. Peter’s Square, where Armangué found the shot that would encapsulate the simplicity and humility that marked Pope Francis’s papacy.

How the Photo Came Together

Some photos require hours of searching, scouting the perfect location and waiting for the right light. But sometimes, a moment presents itself unexpectedly. This was one of those moments. Thousands of faithful passed by the tomb, and Armangué had only a few brief seconds to take in the scene. He knew it was a fleeting opportunity, so he ensured his camera settings were just right. As he stood there, he noticed a white rose placed delicately on a simple tomb engraved only with the word “Franciscus.” In that instant, Armangué knew that this was the shot he had to take. He snapped the photo and moved on, knowing he had captured something profound.

Why This Photo Resonates

The power of this photograph lies in its simplicity. It reflects not just the unadorned nature of the tomb but also the essence of Pope Francis’s pontificate. A man who, as Jorge Mario Bergoglio, rose from the Jesuit order to become the head of the Catholic Church, deliberately chose to break away from the opulence typically associated with the Vatican. The photo, much like the Pope’s papacy, is a quiet testament to humility, simplicity, and faith.

In this single, powerful frame, Armangué captured more than just an image. He encapsulated the essence of Pope Francis—his devotion, his commitment to simplicity, and his legacy that continues to inspire millions around the world.

Source: AP News – An AP photographer expresses the simplicity of Pope Francis in one eternal frame

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Amid ongoing controversy, Cardinal Angelo Becciu has chosen not to participate in the upcoming conclave to elect Pope Francis’ successor. This decision comes after a Vatican court convicted Becciu of embezzlement in 2023.

In a statement released on the matter, Becciu made it clear that he remains firm in his belief of innocence. He wrote, “I remain convinced of my innocence, and I will continue to serve with fidelity and love, as well as contribute to the communion and serenity of the conclave.”

Despite this conviction, Becciu emphasized his commitment to Pope Francis’ wishes. He added, “I have decided to obey as I have always done Pope Francis’ will not to enter the conclave while remaining convinced of my innocence. I obey (Pope) Francis, I will not enter the conclave for the good of the Church.”

This move comes as part of an ongoing series of controversies surrounding the cardinal, who has been at the center of multiple legal and church-related scandals. His absence at the conclave will likely spark further debate about his future role within the Vatican.

Source: Euro News – Controversial Cardinal Becciu won’t join conclave to choose Pope Francis’ successor

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VATICAN CITY (AP) — The election of a new pope, known as a conclave, is an ancient and highly secretive process. The term “conclave” comes from the Italian phrase con clave, meaning “with a key,” highlighting the isolation of cardinals as they seclude themselves until a new pope is chosen. Here’s everything you need to know about how this centuries-old tradition works.

How Does the Conclave Work?

The conclave begins on May 7, starting with a morning Mass led by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, the dean of the College of Cardinals. Afterward, the cardinals process into the Sistine Chapel, where they take an oath of secrecy and pledge to choose a new pope. Once the Extra Omnes—Latin for “all out”—is spoken, all non-cardinals are asked to leave, and the voting process begins.

The first vote takes place that afternoon, with cardinals seeking a two-thirds majority. If no candidate emerges victorious, voting resumes the next day. The cardinals can cast up to two votes each morning and two in the afternoon until they reach a decision.

Who Participates in the Conclave?

Only cardinals under the age of 80 are eligible to vote. While the official limit for electors is 120, there are currently 135 cardinals eligible to participate in the election. Cardinals over 80 cannot vote but can still take part in pre-conclave discussions, known as general congregations, where they share insights about church matters. These meetings can influence the election, as seen in 2013 when then-Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio’s speech about reaching out to the marginalized helped set the stage for his papacy.

What’s New in This Conclave?

While many of the conclave’s rules remain unchanged from St. John Paul II’s 1996 reforms, some adjustments have been made over the years. Pope Benedict XVI, for example, clarified that a two-thirds majority would always be required to elect a pope—eliminating the possibility of a simple majority in cases of deadlock. This ensures that no candidate can be pushed through by a slim majority.

If the conclave stretches beyond the expected duration, the two leading candidates enter a runoff vote. The election still requires a two-thirds majority, and neither of the top two contenders may cast a ballot in the final round.

Who Can Be Elected Pope?

Technically, any baptized Catholic male is eligible to be pope. However, since 1378, only cardinals have been selected. Even cardinals over the age of 80 can be elected pope, though they won’t participate in the voting process.

Why Are Women Excluded?

The ban on women participating in the conclave stems from the Catholic Church’s teaching that only men can be ordained as priests. This doctrine is rooted in the belief that Jesus Christ chose only male apostles, a decision considered divinely inspired and immutable. As a result, only male cardinals can vote to elect the pope.

Is the Voting Process Secret?

Yes, the conclave is shrouded in secrecy. In fact, the oath of secrecy has been reinforced under Pope Benedict XVI. Anyone who discloses details from the conclave faces automatic excommunication. Liturgical assistants and secretaries also swear an oath, agreeing to maintain absolute confidentiality and avoid recording devices during the proceedings.

How Do We Know When a New Pope Is Chosen?

After each vote, the ballots are burned in a cylindrical stove. If no decision is made, black smoke emerges from the Sistine Chapel chimney. When a pope has been elected and accepts the position, white smoke signals the decision to the world. To ensure there’s no confusion, chemical cartridges are added to the fire—black smoke is produced with a mixture of potassium perchlorate and sulfur, while white smoke comes from a blend of potassium chlorate and lactose.

Once the new pope is selected, bells in St. Peter’s Square ring out, confirming the election. The new pope is then introduced to the faithful with the iconic words, Habemus Papam! (“We have a pope!”) and reveals his chosen papal name. From the loggia overlooking the square, the pope gives his first blessing to the crowd below.

Conclusion

The conclave is one of the most closely watched events in the Catholic Church, and while the process remains steeped in tradition and secrecy, the ultimate goal is clear: to choose a leader who will guide the Church through the challenges of the modern world.

Source: AP News – What is a conclave? What to know about the secretive process to elect the next pope

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VATICAN CITY — Journalists packed the gates of Vatican City Monday, eager for any clues as Catholic cardinals gathered for informal talks ahead of the conclave to elect the next pope. A formal date for the conclave could be set as early as this week.

In a chaotic scene, reporters shouted questions at the arriving cardinals — pressing them about unity, possible divisions, and when voting would begin. One satirical Italian TV reporter even grilled cardinals about whether a controversial, convicted cleric would be allowed to cast a vote.

“There is hope for unity,” said Argentine Cardinal Ángel Sixto Rossi, archbishop of Cordoba, who was elevated to cardinal just last year by Pope Francis.

Many cardinals voiced a desire to continue Francis’ pastoral focus on marginalized communities and a church against war. However, conservative factions are hoping for a return to traditional doctrines championed by Pope John Paul II and Benedict XVI — with less emphasis on social justice, outreach to women, and LGBTQ+ issues.

British Cardinal Vincent Nichols, archbishop of Westminster, emphasized the importance of unity, brushing off talk of major divisions.
“The role of the pope is to hold us together — that’s a grace from God,” Nichols said.

Venezuelan Cardinal Baltazar Enrique Porras Cardozo predicted the conclave could wrap up quickly once underway, suggesting a new pope could be chosen in just two or three days.

This conclave will bring together a College of Cardinals heavily shaped by Francis himself. Of the 135 cardinals eligible to vote, 108 were appointed by him — many from outside Europe. However, many of these cardinals don’t know each other well, adding an element of unpredictability to the process.

“We’ve got all week,” said Nichols, noting the time needed for cardinals to build consensus.

Only cardinals under 80 years old can vote. Some uncertainty remains about final participation, as one Spanish cardinal has already bowed out for health reasons.

One major question hovers over Cardinal Angelo Becciu, a former Vatican powerbroker convicted of financial crimes last year. Officially listed as a “non-elector,” Becciu insists he still has the right to vote, sparking debates among canon lawyers.

While many of Francis’ appointees will cast ballots, it doesn’t guarantee they’ll choose a pope in his image.

Italian Cardinal Matteo Zuppi — seen by some as a frontrunner — was swarmed by journalists as he entered the Vatican, navigating the media scrum with humor but offering no hints about the proceedings.

Cardinals from Africa, Asia, and Latin America are expected to be influential in the decision.

Nigerian Cardinal John Olorunfemi Onaiyekan, although too old to vote, dismissed rumors of political alliances among African cardinals.
“We’re not here for a political rally. We’re here to get a pope,” he said.

African cardinals made headlines last year for their unified resistance to Francis’ outreach to LGBTQ+ Catholics — a stance that could influence the election against progressive candidates.

Meanwhile, voices from Asia and Latin America also stressed unity. Indian Cardinal Anthony Poola, one of four Indian electors, said he felt positive but realistic:
“Anything could happen,” Poola said.

Rossi, the Argentine cardinal, hopes the next pope will carry forward Francis’ message of mercy, charity, and faith. Asked how he felt about his first conclave, he laughed and said simply:
“Afraid.”

Source: AP News – Journalists swarm cardinals at the Vatican gates as they meet to plan a conclave

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The bells of St. Peter’s Basilica rang solemnly as tens of thousands gathered in Vatican City to bid farewell to Pope Francis, a leader remembered as a champion of the poor, migrants, and the marginalized.

The funeral Mass, held on the steps of the iconic basilica, drew an extraordinary crowd — over 250,000 mourners in the square and along the 6-kilometer procession route through Rome. More than 50 world leaders and 11 monarchs paid their respects, including U.S. President Donald Trump, former President Joe Biden, Argentine President Javier Milei, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., and Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky.

As the modest wooden coffin was carried back into the basilica, applause broke the solemn silence of the crowd. After the service, Francis’ body was taken across the River Tiber to the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore for burial, passing Rome’s ancient Colosseum along the way.

“I loved him from the very first moment because he was human, with such an open heart,” said Anita Althaus, who drove overnight from Germany to attend. “He had love always.”

Pope Francis, the first Latin American pope, died at age 88 following a stroke on Easter Monday — just one day after giving his final public blessing in St. Peter’s Square.

His funeral was simple by design, following his own wishes to focus not on power, but on his identity as a humble pastor. Italian Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, leading the homily, praised Francis’ relentless advocacy for refugees, the poor, and peace amid the world’s wars.

“Build bridges, not walls,” was a refrain Francis often repeated, Cardinal Re reminded mourners.

The ceremony also reflected the pope’s global reach. Prayers were offered in multiple languages, including French, Arabic, Portuguese, Polish, German — and for the first time, Mandarin Chinese.

Holy Communion was distributed to both cardinals and laypeople, with handshakes and warm greetings rippling through the crowd, capturing the uplifting spirit Francis often encouraged.

True to his mission, Pope Francis ensured that the poor, homeless, migrants, and other marginalized groups were not only invited to the funeral but given a front-row place to honor him. A group of transgender women living in a Roman convent also attended, illustrating Francis’ lifelong efforts to include those often overlooked by the Church.

“The poor have a privileged place in the heart of God,” a Vatican statement emphasized — a belief Francis lived until his final day.

For his burial, Francis chose Santa Maria Maggiore, becoming the first pope in more than 300 years to be interred there — away from the public eye, among the people he championed.

Sister Evelyn, attending from the Basilica, said, “When Pope Francis recognized us in the periphery, we felt seen. Will the next pope see us too?”

Francis was a trailblazer: the first Jesuit pope, the first from the Americas, and the first modern pope born outside Europe. Elected in 2013, he ushered in progressive reforms, expanding roles for women and softening the Church’s tone on LGBTQ+ issues. His famous words on sexual orientation — “Who am I to judge?” — captured his pastoral approach.

He approved blessings for same-sex couples, though without changing official doctrine, and he remained a vocal critic of nationalism and harsh immigration policies, including rebukes of the Trump administration.

Still, his papacy was not without controversy. Survivors and activists say more work remains to address clerical sexual abuse, and divisions over Church teachings on sexuality persist. Some conservative factions within the Church openly criticized his leadership.

The next pope will be chosen in a closed-door conclave, with tensions expected between cardinals who wish to continue Francis’ progressive path and those who seek to shift the Church back toward conservatism.

Many young Catholics, however, hope for continuity.

“I hope the next pope will be close to the people, like Francis,” said Candela Rodríguez, a 21-year-old student from Spain attending the funeral. “He did a good job of bringing religion closer to young people.”

Across Vatican City, mourners echoed a similar feeling: deep sadness at the loss, and gratitude for a life devoted to compassion, reform, and service to those who needed it most.

“He was a simple man who loved others,” said Sister Luisa, a nun from Munich. “We feel blessed — and we feel sorrow.”

Source: CNN – Francis celebrated as ‘pope among the people’ in Vatican funeral attended by massive crowd

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In a striking moment of diplomacy amid solemn ceremony, U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held urgent war talks inside St. Peter’s Basilica on Saturday, just minutes before the funeral of Pope Francis began.

Photos released by Ukraine’s presidency showed Trump and Zelensky deep in conversation, alone and without aides, surrounded by the grandeur of the Vatican.

Zelensky later posted on social media, calling it a “good meeting” and emphasizing their goals: protecting Ukrainian lives, achieving a full and unconditional ceasefire, and securing a lasting peace to prevent future wars. “A symbolic meeting that has the potential to become historic if joint results are achieved,” he added.

A White House spokesperson described the meeting as “very productive,” noting it lasted about 15 minutes. Both sides agreed to continue the dialogue in the coming days.

Saturday’s meeting marked the first face-to-face encounter between Trump and Zelensky since a rocky session at the White House in February, where Trump had publicly criticized Zelensky’s government and briefly suspended military support.

Interestingly, this latest conversation wasn’t announced in advance. It took place near the entrance of St. Peter’s Basilica, just outside the Baptistry Chapel, taking advantage of the gathering of world leaders and the looser formalities around seating arrangements.

While the White House had downplayed the possibility of any sideline diplomacy during the trip, the death of Pope Francis shifted Trump’s travel plans — originally set to begin in Saudi Arabia — and opened the door for unexpected high-level interactions in Europe.

Trump also briefly engaged with other global figures during the funeral, including French President Emmanuel Macron and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, amid ongoing tensions over trade and defense matters.

Behind the scenes, the U.S. is turning up the pressure on Ukraine to strike a peace deal. Trump warned last week that the U.S. could walk away from negotiations “within days” if no progress is made.

Landing in Rome, Trump posted on Truth Social:

“A good day in talks and meetings with Russia and Ukraine. They are very close to a deal, and the two sides should now meet, at very high levels, to ‘finish it off.’”

Adding to the momentum, Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff spent three hours in talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday, discussions described by Moscow as “constructive and very useful.”

Meanwhile, before departing Kyiv, Zelensky signaled openness to negotiations — but with conditions. He stressed that Ukraine would only engage after a full and unconditional ceasefire, and that future security guarantees would be critical, possibly involving European troops or advanced U.S. defense systems like Patriot missiles.

Zelensky also acknowledged a tough reality: Ukraine’s bid for NATO membership is not imminent. He called for pragmatic security guarantees, rather than relying solely on alliance membership.

Talks are also being shaped by a new draft plan, the “Ukraine Deal Framework,” drawn up in London between Ukrainian and European officials. A copy obtained by Reuters proposes a full ceasefire across land, sea, and air — monitored by the U.S. and other partner countries.

The framework envisions:

• Strong U.S.-backed security guarantees for Ukraine, similar to NATO’s Article 5 protections.
• No restrictions on the presence or operations of foreign allied forces inside Ukraine.
• Negotiations over disputed territories starting after the ceasefire, based on current frontlines.

Ukraine would also regain control of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, and the U.S. would gain access to valuable Ukrainian rare earth minerals — compensated through frozen Russian assets.

However, the framework faces significant obstacles. Russia is likely to oppose many of its provisions, especially those allowing foreign military presence in Ukraine.

One particularly thorny issue remains Crimea. Although Witkoff’s private proposal reportedly suggests the U.S. could recognize Crimea as Russian territory, Zelensky firmly rejected that idea, calling it non-negotiable and unconstitutional under Ukrainian law.

“There’s nothing to talk about when it comes to Crimea,” Zelensky said bluntly. Instead, he pushed for more economic pressure and sanctions as alternatives to military force.

As talks inch forward, tensions on the ground remain high. On Thursday, Kyiv suffered its deadliest missile attack since July, leaving 12 dead. Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin claimed on Saturday that Russia had regained full control of the Kursk border region — a claim that Ukraine has yet to confirm, and which independent media have not yet verified.

Inside the Vatican, the quiet, hurried conversation between Trump and Zelensky offered a rare glimpse of high-stakes diplomacy unfolding during one of the world’s most solemn ceremonies. Whether this historic setting helps bring an end to Europe’s bloodiest conflict since World War II remains to be seen.

Source: CNN – Trump and Zelensky hold war talks inside St. Peter’s Basilica ahead of pope’s funeral

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Thousands of mourners poured into St. Peter’s Basilica on Wednesday, paying their final respects to Pope Francis as three days of public viewing began ahead of Saturday’s funeral.

Under the vaulted ceilings of the 16th-century basilica, an open wooden casket holding the body of Pope Francis was placed humbly on a ramp, not on a raised platform like past popes — a deliberate choice reflecting his wishes for a simpler farewell. Dressed in red liturgical robes, rosary in hand, and wearing the traditional bishop’s miter, the beloved pontiff lay in state near the main altar as Swiss Guards stood in solemn watch.

By the end of the first day, nearly 20,000 people had quietly filed past the casket — some tearful, some praying, others capturing the moment with their phones.

“It gave me chills,” said Ivenes Bianco, who traveled from Brindisi while in Rome for medical treatment. “He brought people together. He was important to me.”

A Farewell Fit for a Shepherd

The Vatican says it may extend public viewing hours to accommodate the growing crowd. Inside the basilica, the atmosphere was reverent — the gentle squeak of sneakers, the shuffle of robes, the whisper of prayers, and the occasional cry of a child.

Earlier that morning, the basilica’s bells tolled as pallbearers carried Francis’ body in a solemn procession across St. Peter’s Square — the same place where he had offered his final blessing just weeks ago during a surprise appearance on Easter Sunday, defying his fragile health.

Cardinal Kevin Farrell, who is temporarily overseeing Vatican affairs, led the procession, flanked by cardinals, bishops, and members of the clergy. Incense filled the air as the Litany of Saints echoed through the basilica.

“It feels like losing a family member,” said Rosa Morghen from Naples. “He was like a father or grandfather to us.”

Pope Francis, who passed away on Monday at age 88, leaves behind a 12-year papacy defined by his compassion for the poor, commitment to interfaith dialogue, and push for a more inclusive Catholic Church. While admired globally, his progressive views occasionally drew criticism from conservative circles.

His simple final wishes were honored from the start: Francis first lay in state privately at the Vatican guesthouse he called home, before moving to the basilica for the public to say goodbye.

The viewing will continue until Friday at 7 p.m., after which the casket will be closed and sealed.

The funeral Mass is set for Saturday at 10 a.m. in St. Peter’s Square, drawing world leaders including U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Behind the scenes, cardinals are already preparing for the conclave — the sacred process that will elect the next pope. With 133 eligible cardinals under the age of 80, the secretive vote is expected to begin after May 5.

While speculation swirls about possible successors, many are reflecting on Francis’ global legacy. From Asia to the South Pacific, representatives are traveling to Rome, hopeful about the Church’s next chapter.

“There’s no East or West for the Lord,” said South Korean Cardinal Lazarus You Heung-sik, when asked if the next pope might come from Asia.

John Ribat, the first cardinal from Papua New Guinea, expressed pride in representing the island nation, saying he hopes for a leader who can unite the Church in truth and compassion.

“We’ve lost our leader,” said Brazilian pilgrim Julio Henrique, “but we also hold onto hope — hope for who will next take Peter’s throne.”

Source: AP News – Catholic faithful pay their final respects to Pope Francis as public viewing begins

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A Vatican showdown is brewing as Cardinal Giovanni Angelo Becciu, who was convicted of financial crimes by the Vatican, insists that he should be allowed to participate in the upcoming conclave to elect a new pope. Despite being listed as a “non-elector,” Becciu, who once held immense power within the Vatican, argues that there was no explicit decision to exclude him.

Becciu, a former high-ranking Vatican official, was removed from his influential position by Pope Francis in 2020, following his involvement in a financial scandal that rocked the Holy See. The Sardinian cardinal, who served as the Vatican’s chief of staff—or “sostituto” in the Secretariat of State—had significant sway in church matters. He later took on a role overseeing the Vatican’s saint-making department before his legal troubles began.

In 2023, Becciu was convicted of embezzlement and fraud, making him the first cardinal in history to be convicted by the Vatican’s criminal court. He was sentenced to five and a half years in prison. However, Becciu has maintained his innocence and has launched an appeal, which is still under consideration. While the appeal is ongoing, Becciu has been allowed to stay in a Vatican apartment.

Despite being stripped of his “rights and privileges” by Pope Francis, Becciu has never been formally removed from the College of Cardinals. The Vatican’s official stance lists him as a “non-elector,” meaning he is not currently eligible to vote in the papal election. However, Becciu disputes this, telling a Sardinian newspaper, “There was no explicit will to exclude me from the conclave, nor a request for my explicit renunciation in writing.”

The decision on Becciu’s participation in the conclave is now set to be made by the dean of the College of Cardinals, Giovanni Battista Re, along with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, who will oversee the conclave proceedings in the Sistine Chapel. The Vatican is grappling with this issue as the election process for the new pope approaches.

The investigation that led to Becciu’s conviction centered on the Vatican’s failed investment in a London property, which caused the church to lose millions of dollars. During his papacy, Pope Francis took decisive steps to address financial corruption within the Vatican, even enacting new laws to ensure that cardinals like Becciu could be judged by a Vatican tribunal.

While Becciu lost his privileges as a cardinal, he remains a member of the College of Cardinals and is still eligible to take part in pre-conclave discussions. Only cardinals under the age of 80 can vote in the papal election, and at 76, Becciu meets the age requirement.

As the Vatican prepares for the conclave, this unresolved issue with Becciu adds yet another layer of complexity to the already tense and highly anticipated process of choosing the next pope.

Source: CNN –

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