Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle led a Rosary for Pope Francis on Thursday (April 24) at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome, where dozens of faithful gathered in prayer and remembrance.
Francis, who passed away on Monday (April 21) at the age of 88 after suffering a stroke and cardiac arrest, leaves behind a legacy marked by bold reforms, vocal support for the poor and marginalised, and frequent clashes with traditionalists during his papacy.
Earlier this year, he spent five weeks hospitalised with double pneumonia. Though he had shown signs of recovery, the Vatican said on Tuesday (April 22) that his death came swiftly and peacefully, without suffering.
There is no clear frontrunner to succeed Francis, although British bookmakers have singled out Luis Antonio Tagle, a reformer from the Philippines, and Pietro Parolin, from Italy, as early favourites.
The funeral for Pope Francis will be held on Saturday (April 26) in St. Peter’s Square, following a decision by Roman Catholic cardinals on Tuesday. The ceremony is expected to draw world leaders and dignitaries for a final farewell.
