New pope elected after

The Vatican has announced the selection of a new pope following the death of Pope Francis on April 21, caused by a cerebral stroke leading to a coma and heart failure. After nine days of mourning and traditional rituals, the papal conclave, in which the College of Cardinals votes up to four times per day, concluded with the election of a successor. While the new pope’s identity has not yet been revealed, the Vatican has confirmed the decision. Likely candidates included Cardinals Pietro Parolin, Peter Erdö, Luis Antonio Tagle, Matteo Zuppi, and Raymond Leo Burke.

Following his death, Pope Francis’ final will was made public, expressing his desire for a simple burial in the ground at the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major, marked solely with the inscription “Franciscus.” He chose this location because of his devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary and his practice of praying there before and after every Apostolic Journey. In his testament, signed on June 29, 2022, Francis also reflected on his final days, offering his suffering for world peace and fraternity.