The rite confirming the death and the placement of Pope Francis’s body in the coffin took place on the evening of Monday 21 April in the ground-floor chapel of the Casa Santa Marta The official declaration of death was read aloud The act was validated by Cardinal Kevin Farrell Seals were also placed on the papal apartment on the third floor of the Apostolic Palace and on the apartment on the second floor of Casa Santa Marta the first General Congregation of Cardinals will take place during which a potential date for the funeral may be decided Thank you for reading our article. You can keep up-to-date by subscribing to our daily newsletter. Just click here creating a living space that honours both the environment and the cultural heritage of the area they ensured that the materials used had a low installation impact and high durability Elaborating on the challenges faced during the project “One of the biggest challenges we encountered was working with the uneven terrain We overcame this by adapting the design to the topography allowing the house to sit harmoniously within its environment We carefully planned the building layout and the construction process to work around the existing trees ensuring minimal disruption to the natural surroundings.” Sustainable design is woven into every aspect of the Casa The residence features a rainwater collection system that filters and separates black water from rainwater channelling it through a biodigester before releasing it into an absorption well This method not only conserves water but also prevents contamination of the nearby lake The strategic placement of trees around the home also provides natural shading and enhances the microclimate "We implemented several key strategies to minimise ecological impact. We prioritised the use of local materials to reduce transportation emissions and support the local community shading from vegetation and the building's orientation to take advantage of natural light,” the studio adds The layout of Casa Santa María del Oro is designed to foster connection with nature It includes three bedrooms surrounding a central social space that opens onto expansive terraces featuring a circular pool This arrangement encourages occupants to immerse themselves in their surroundings experiencing the gentle sway of trees and stunning views of the lake making the home feel timeless and rooted in its setting The socio-economic context of Santa María del Oro has significantly influenced this architectural project The architects engaged thoughtfully with local communities to ensure that their design approach aligned with local capabilities and cultural values This collaborative process enriches both the architectural outcome and community perspectives on sustainability The decision to use recycled wood from the formwork speaks to Mexican architectural practice’s zero-waste approach This wood is repurposed into custom furniture pieces infusing a sense of history and narrative into the home "We hope that this project serves as a model for sustainable living in the region, demonstrating that it is possible to build in harmony with nature without sacrificing comfort or aesthetics. For the local community, we aspire to promote the use of local craftsmanship and materials as well as supporting environmental conservation initiatives,” the studio continues This residential project is an example of how architecture can reflect cultural narratives while promoting sustainable living The use of local materials such as volcanic stone ties the structure to its geographical context and pays homage to traditional Mexican building practices Each space within the Casa tells a story—of tradition As we move forward in an era increasingly defined by environmental challenges Casa Santa María del Oro is a reminder of the importance of designing spaces that protect inspire and elevate human experience while fostering a deep connection with nature Pooja is an architectural historian by education writer-editor-curator by choice and traveller by passion She has worked with Historic Environment Scotland the Victoria and Albert Museum in Scotland She has executed multiple architectural exhibitions and publications exhibitions and publications for effective communication of architecture and design All her free time is spent exploring the world through books and travel From vernacular knowledge to modern sustainability Middle Eastern pavilions serve as living archives of architectural thought offering fresh frameworks for global adoption STIR engages with the curators of the Togo Oman and Qatar pavilions—debuting at the Venice Architecture Biennale 2025—on representation the book presents a fictional story depicting algorithms exercising control over humans and how this affects the built environment Tipnis shares how the toolbox democratises the practice of restoration via DIY resources to repair tangible urban heritage made of common building materials Exclusive preview for subscribers. Learn More Make your fridays matter. Learn More © Copyright 2019-2025 STIR Design Private Limited Please confirm your email address and we’ll send you a link to reset your password All your bookmarks will be available across all your devices Password must be 8 characters long including one capital letter By creating an account, you acknowledge and agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy by STIR Select the Conversation Category you would like to watch Please enter your details and click submit Single account access for STIRworld.com,STIRpad.com and exclusive STIRfri content Verification link sent to check your inbox or spam folder to complete sign up process by Pooja Suresh Hollannavar | Published on : Nov 04 Pope Francis was brought in solemn procession to St. Peter’s Basilica on Wednesday morning, where the late pontiff will lie in state for three days for mourners to pay their final respects and say goodbye SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER HERE The Rite of Translation began in the chapel of the Casa Santa Marta where Francis lived for the 12 years of his pontificate and ended with the Holy Father’s body before the Altar of Confession in the soaring basilica at the center of Christendom This article was originally published on Catholic News Agency. Live Updates following the Pope's Passing Please enable JS and disable any ad blocker The TimesThere will be so many cardinals checking in to the Vatican for the conclave next week they’ll have to squeeze in but at least this time they get their own bedroom and a flushing toilet With 133 princes of the Church turning up for the election of Pope Francis’s successor on May 7 — the biggest group of cardinals ever — there is a shortage of space at the Casa Santa Marta the Vatican residence for visiting prelates which only has about 125 rooms One apartment is also out of bounds. Pope Francis chose to live there during his papacy to enjoy the hubbub and his flat was sealed after his death last month as per tradition shortly after 11:30 am at the Casa Santa Marta Pope Francis had a brief private meeting with the Vice President of the United States of America The Holy See Press Office gave news of the meeting and noted it lasted a few minutes and offered an opportunity to exchange Easter greetings JD Vance visited the Secretariat of State yesterday morning where he was welcomed by the Cardinal Secretary of State together with Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher Secretary for Relations with States and International Organisations during which the common commitment to protect the right to religious freedom and freedom of conscience was renewed There was also an exchange of views on the international situation especially regarding countries affected by war political tensions and difficult humanitarian situations with particular attention focused on migrants the Vice President with his wife and three children attended the Celebration of the Lord's Passion in Saint Peter's Basilica presided over by Cardinal Claudio Gugerotti prefect of the Dicastery for the Eastern Churches the Angelus may take place in a different manner compared to previous Sundays and an update will be provided on Saturday the Holy See Press Office informed journalists on Friday morning the Press Office conveyed that Pope Francis continues to show clinical improvements as he recovers at his residence in the Casa Santa Marta following his hospitalization for a polymicrobial infection that resulted in bilateral pneumonia The Holy Father was released from Rome's Gemelli Hospital with "protected discharge" on Sunday Pope Francis' condition has shown further slight respiratory Recent blood tests also indicate a slight improvement in his pulmonary infection The Holy Father has been continuing his treatment and mobility and respiratory-related physical therapy; he also requires less supplemental oxygen he continues with an ordinary administration of oxygen he continues with high-flow oxygenation with nasal cannulas as needed Pope Francis continues his work activities and is in good spirits the Holy Father followed the Lenten meditation held in the Vatican's Paul VI Hall held by the Preacher of the Papal Household Peter's Basilica presided over by Vatican Secretary of State on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the death of Saint John Paul II The Press Office noted there have not been visits to note adding that it is still too early to discuss the Pope's participation in Holy Week liturgies The next briefing on the Holy Father will be on Tuesday announced the death of Pope Francis from the Casa Santa Marta with these words: with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis 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 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." told journalists later on Monday that the late Pope's body could be transferred to St so that the faithful may pray before his mortal remains.  "The translation of the Holy Father's mortal remains to the Vatican Basilica may take place on the morning of Wednesday according to the arrangements that shall be determined and communicated tomorrow following the first Congregation of the Cardinals," Mr The rite of the certification of death and placement in the coffin took place on Monday evening at 8:00 PM in the chapel on the ground floor of the late Pope's residence in the Casa Santa Marta and the ceremony lasted just under an hour Seals were placed on the papal apartment on the third floor of the Apostolic Palace and on the apartment on the second floor of the Casa Santa Marta Pope Francis' closest collaborators have begun to pay their respects to the late Pope He said the first General Congregation of Cardinals will take place on Tuesday morning during which a date for the funeral may be decided Pope Francis was admitted to the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital on Friday after suffering from a bout of bronchitis for several days The Pope’s clinical situation gradually worsened and his doctors diagnosed bilateral pneumonia on Tuesday the late Pope Francis returned to his Vatican residence at the Casa Santa Marta to continue his recovery Jorge Mario Bergoglio underwent surgery in his native Argentina to remove a portion of his lung that had been affected by a severe respiratory infection Pope Francis frequently suffered bouts of respiratory illnesses even cancelling a planned visit to the United Arab Emirates in November 2023 due to influenza and lung inflammation the late Pope Francis approved an updated edition of the liturgical book for papal funeral rites which will guide the funeral Mass which has yet to be announced The second edition of the Ordo Exsequiarum Romani Pontificis introduces several new elements including how the Pope’s mortal remains are to be handled after death The ascertainment of death takes place in the chapel and his body is immediately placed inside the coffin the late Pope Francis had requested that the funeral rites be simplified and focused on expressing the faith of the Church in the Risen Body of Christ “The renewed rite,” said Archbishop Ravelli “seeks to emphasise even more that the funeral of the Roman Pontiff is that of a pastor and disciple of Christ and not of a powerful person of this world.” (Article updated at 10:25 PM to include details of the rite of certification of death) The Holy See Press Office announced on Tuesday that Pope Francis’ funeral Mass will take place on Saturday The Eucharistic celebration will conclude with the Ultima commendatio and the Valedictio or nine days of mourning and Masses for the repose of Pope Francis' soul The late Pope's body will then be taken into St Peter’s Basilica and then to the Basilica of St the coffin containing the Pope’s body will be carried from the chapel of the Casa Santa Marta to St so that the faithful may pay their respects will preside over the rite of translation on April 23 which will begin at 9:00 AM with a moment of prayer. The procession will pass through Santa Marta Square and the Square of the Roman Protomartyrs The procession will then exit through the Arch of the Bells into St Peter’s Square and enter the Vatican Basilica through the central door the Cardinal Camerlengo will preside over the Liturgy of the Word at the conclusion of which the visits to the body of the Roman Pontiff will commence St Peter's Basilica will remain open for the faithful who wish to pay their respects to the late Pope on Wednesday from 11: AM to midnight; on Thursday from 7:00 AM to midnight; and on Friday from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM In a statement released Saturday afternoon combined with the symptoms of a cold that have manifested in recent days and also in view of next week's commitments Pope Francis will lead the Angelus prayer tomorrow during an audience with the Italian Bocce Federation This is not the first time the Pontiff has led the Angelus prayer from Casa Santa Marta due to the inflammation in his lungs that had forced him to change the appointments on his agenda and forgo his trip to Dubai for COP28 Pope Francis led the Sunday Angelus from the Casa’s chapel – already well-known to the public due to the many morning Masses presided over by the Pontiff – to prevent the Pope from being exposed to sudden changes in temperature be broadcast live on television and on the screens in St as well as in streaming on the Vatican News website held a briefing for journalists on Friday to provide an update on Pope Francis’ recovery from bilateral pneumonia noting he has shown slight improvements in respiratory and motor functions The Holy Father continues to gradually reduce the amount of high-flow oxygen he receives through nasal cannulas during the day accompanied by a slight reduction at night According to blood tests carried out on Wednesday the Pope’s hematological parameters are normal Pope Francis continues to alternate between therapy with all Dicasteries of the Roman Curia sending documents to update him on their activity The Pope concelebrates Mass every day in the chapel of the Casa Santa Marta Bruni said the Pope has not had any particular visits to report He added that Pope Francis has been informed of the earthquake in Myanmar saying the Pope is praying for the many victims he followed the second Lenten Sermon delivered by Fr This Sunday’s Angelus address will be released by the Holy See Press Office as it has on previous Sundays The Holy See Press Office announced on Monday that the rite of ascertainment of death and placement of the late Pope Francis’ body in the coffin will take place on Monday at 8:00 PM Rome time will preside over the rite in the Chapel of the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta the Press Office indicated that those present will include the Dean of the College of Cardinals and family members of the late Pope Francis the Director and Deputy Director of the Directorate of Health and Hygiene told journalists that the Pope's body could be transferred to St so that the faithful may pray before his mortal remains the Press Office announced that the canonization Mass for Blessed Carlo Acutis has been temporarily suspended due to the death of Pope Francis The Eucharistic celebration and canonization rite had been scheduled for Sunday Print Insights If I believed in miracles as strongly as I did as a Catholic school student I could hope that Vice President JD Vance would be transformed by his audience with Pope Francis on Easter Sunday just hours before the pope died that he’d embrace Francis’ compassionate views on the world’s migrants But I don’t much believe in miracles anymore is not Christian” — didn’t diminish Trump’s anti-immigrant zeal Francis’ words stand as a reproach to the administration’s current policies It is not hyperbole to say that the future of our constitutional democracy may turn on the case of the alleged Venezuelan gangsters sent to El Salvador and the case of Kilmar Abrego Garcia “How much contempt is stirred up at times towards the vulnerable the marginalized and migrants!” Francis lamented “I appeal to all those in positions of political responsibility in our world not to yield to the logic of fear but rather to use the resources available to help the needy to fight hunger and to encourage initiatives that promote development These are the weapons of peace: weapons that build the future “Getting them out will be a bloody story.” The story hasn’t been bloody — yet. But it’s a cruel one. The Washington Post, in a front-page story on Monday next to the one about Vance’s visit with Francis, reported on conditions in crowded U.S “You’re stripped from your humanity,” América Platt told the Post She spent four sleepless nights on a floor mat in a Texas center after being arrested for an unresolved traffic ticket where she hadn’t lived since fleeing an abusive father two decades ago Political theorist Hannah Arendt came of age in Germany as Hitler came to power Her life and writings have a chilling resonance for Americans today The Springfield (Ohio) News-Sun reported last week that a majority of the city’s Haitian population remain there despite Trump’s threats to revoke their immigration status and deport them “They don’t have any other place to go in the U.S.A where they will not be facing the same issue,” Vilès Dorsainvil president of a local Haitian assistance group as well as a separate program for undocumented migrant children Francis was watching all this. “I have followed closely the major crisis that is taking place in the United States with the initiation of a program of mass deportations,” he wrote to U.S in a letter that implicitly rebutted Vance’s criticism “The rightly formed conscience cannot fail to make a critical judgment.” The pope acknowledged a nation’s right to police its borders but urged openness toward innocents fleeing “extreme poverty persecution or serious deterioration of the environment” — as Jesus Mary and Joseph did when they fled to Egypt “What would Jesus do?” the question goes Francis made clear in his letter — as he did again in his Easter address before he died But some public actions are so heinous that a pope is compelled to speak @jackiekcalmes L.A. Times Insights delivers AI-generated analysis on Voices content to offer all points of view Insights does not appear on any news articles The following AI-generated content is powered by Perplexity The Los Angeles Times editorial staff does not create or edit the content Jackie Calmes is an opinion columnist for the Los Angeles Times in Washington Before joining The Times in 2017 as White House editor she worked at the New York Times and Wall Street Journal She served as the chief political correspondent and chief economic correspondent at each paper Ford Journalism Prize for Reporting on the Presidency Calmes began her career in Texas covering state politics and moved to Washington in 1984 to work for Congressional Quarterly She was a fellow at the Harvard Kennedy School’s Shorenstein Center on Media Politics and Public Policy and at the University of Chicago Institute of Politics She is the author of “Dissent: The Radicalization of the Republican Party and Its Capture of the Court.” Subscribe for unlimited accessSite Map A Vatican Press Office statement to journalists said “Due to bronchitis that he is experiencing these days Pope Francis' audiences will be held at Casa Santa Marta.” The Holy Father also held his scheduled audiences on Thursday morning at his residence in the Vatican instead of at the Apostolic Palace He received young priests and monks of the Oriental Orthodox Churches on a study visit to Rome and later met with midwives and healthcare personnel from provinces in Italy’s southern Calabria region during the general audience in the Paul VI Hall while the Pope personally delivered an appeal for "countries suffering from war." Vance arrived at Casa Santa Marta shortly after 11:30 a.m., the Vatican said.ROME and LONDON -- Pope Francis appeared on Sunday in St Peter's Square at the Vatican for an Easter Sunday blessing after a brief earlier meeting with Vice President JD Vance Vance arrived at Casa Santa Marta in the Vatican shortly after 11:30 a.m the Vatican's Holy See Press Office said in a statement gave them the opportunity to exchange Easter greetings," the office said At about noon, the 88-year-old pontiff arrived at St. Peter's Square where Easter celebrations are taking place "Buona Pasqua!" or "Happy Easter!" The pope's Easter blessing included a call for an end to conflicts in the Middle East "May the principle of humanity never fail to be the hallmark of our daily actions," his blessing said in part "In the face of the cruelty of conflicts that involve defenseless civilians and attack schools we cannot allow ourselves to forget that it is not targets that are struck each possessed of a soul and human dignity." Faculty Visiting Professor of Art History Erin Giffin's new publication Early Modern Replicas of the Holy House of Loreto: Translating Space (Routledge cross-cultural study of three-dimensional structural replicas of the Santa Casa constructed over the 16th through 19th centuries the project investigates a diversity cultures and communities engaging with Loreto and the broad spectrum of materials used to visualize the cult from three-dimensional structural replicas to paper prints and devotional ephemera The resulting international Santa Casa replicas exalted the degraded surfaces of the original countering many preconceived notions about the Catholic Church and its messaging Building on a growing field interest in lay devotional imagery and objects—and traversing modern national boundaries anachronistically limiting prior debate—Giffin's work examines the act of replication across Europe and Latin America This vantage combines art historical questions of materiality and form with broader anthropological and social history concerns regarding information production and reception to reveal how early modern Catholics capitalized on cult replicas [FILE] Pope Francis waves to faithfuls after delivering the Urbi et Orbi Christmas Day message from the central balcony of St Apr 21 (EFE).– Pope Francis died Monday at 7:35 a.m (5:35 GMT) in his residence at the Casa Santa Marta His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of his Church,” Farrell said in a solemn statement from the Holy See Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires Francis became the 266th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church and its first Latin American pope in 2013 Home - The Church - Pope Francis The Vatican confirmed that the pope was suffering from bronchitis and that his meetings were moved from the apostolic palace to Casa Santa Marta Pope Francis himself reaffirmed this when the new ambassador of Kazakhstan came to present him with his credentials The pope already showed symptoms at the general audience POPE FRANCISI want to apologize because with this severe cold it is difficult for me to speak That is why I asked my brother to read the catechesis but he is still having meetings: on February 6 alone in Santa Marta he had eight he also met with some 1,000 Scandinavian pilgrims in an audience in the Paul VI Hall and participated in the summit on the rights of children Pope Francis has died at the age of 88 The Vatican announced Francis's death on Monday, April 21. Francis died of a stroke and irreversible heart failure, Vatican doctor Andrea Arcangeli said in a death certificate released Monday. the Pope had a prior history of acute respiratory failure caused by multimicrobial bilateral pneumonia Francis had greeted thousands a day before in St The pope sat in a raised chair in the popemobile as tens of thousands of people lined the aisles inside the square and shouted Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, announced the pope's death from the Casa Santa Marta with these words, according to Vatican News: Francis has experienced several bouts of ill health over the last two years and was prone to lung infections because he had pleurisy as a young adult and had part of one lung removed Francis died of a stroke and irreversible heart failure Vatican doctor Andrea Arcangeli said in a death certificate released Monday The Pope was first admitted to a hospital on Feb He was then diagnosed with bilateral pneumonia a few days later After spending over a month in the hospital Francis returned to his Vatican residence to recover Pope Francis died on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at 88 at his residence in the Vatican's Casa Santa Marta, according to Vatican News. Francis became the 266th occupant of the papacy The new Pope is elected 15 to 20 days after the Pope's death depending on how much time is needed for other cardinals to arrive in Vatican City The conclave is held in the Sistine Chapel under non-negotiable rules The 10 conclaves convened throughout the twentieth and twenty-first centuries lasted an average of four days A half majority is also considered in deadlock situations that exceed 33 or 34 ballot rounds The ballots used in the last round were burned and smoke signals were used to signify the outcome; black smoke means a failed election Natassia Paloma may be reached at npaloma@gannett.com @NatassiaPaloma on Twitter; natassia_paloma on Instagram More: Good Friday is celebrated with The Way of the Cross reenactment in Juárez Francis' body was taken from the chapel of the Casa Santa Marta to St Peter's Basilica on the morning of Wednesday Kimberlee Speakman is a digital writer at PEOPLE She has also worked in broadcast television as a reporter for Hawaii-based news station KHON2 News Grzegorz Galazka/Archivio Grzegorz Galazka/ Mondadori Portfolio via Getty Francis is gradually improving: signs of recovery at the Vatican After several days of rest at Casa Santa Marta the Pope is showing positive signs in his health Pope Francis continues his recovery process at the Casa Santa Marta after being discharged from Gemelli Hospital on March 23 his general condition shows a slight but steady improvement favorable developments have been observed in his breathing capacity and mobility Improvements have also been noted in his voice tone and a reduction in his need for oxygen the Holy Father has maintained moderate activity focused on following up on ecclesial matters and occasional meetings with close collaborators Although his public schedule has been reduced he is expected to be able to participate in a limited capacity in the traditional Angelus prayer on Sunday although there is no official confirmation yet The Church and millions of faithful around the world continue united in prayer for the Pope’s full recovery Pope Francis to young couples in an unpublished text: believe in the “joy of love” Cardinal Parolin at the Novendalia Mass: “Mercy leads us to the heart of faith” Pope Francis’ Tomb in Santa Maria Maggiore Tweets by Pontifex Pope Francis' convalescence continues at his residence of Casa Santa Marta with his continued treatment mobility and respiratory-related physiotherapy and concelebrating Mass in the residence's chapel These were among the updates the Holy See Press Office provided to accredited journalists regarding the Pope’s health after he was discharged on Sunday following 38 days of hospitalization in Rome's Gemelli Hospital due to bilateral pneumonia After greeting 3,000 people from a balcony at the hospital and briefly stopping at Rome's Marian Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore Pope Francis returned to his Vatican residence where he began his period of recovery and rest The Pope's period of convalescence and rest at his residence should be about “two months,” maintained Doctor Sergio Alfieri the doctor overseeing the Pope’s hospitalization at Gemelli at Saturday evening's press conference at Gemelli Hospital “The Pope," the Holy See Press Office noted on Tuesday "is following the convalescence plan as described by the doctors on Saturday.”  Doctors Alfieri and Carbone stated that the Holy Father must continue pharmacological treatment “for a long time administered orally,” while undergoing full-time mobility and respiratory-related physiotherapy continuing as he had done daily at the Gemelli The physicians also advised him to avoid meetings and to receive 24-hour medical assistance to provide for his needs This care is being provided by the Directorate of Health and Hygiene of Vatican City and a medical team is always present with the Pope The Holy Father continues to receive oxygen therapy under the same conditions as during his hospitalization—high-flow oxygen through nasal cannulas at night with a gradual reduction of oxygen therapy during the day where he had concelebrated Mass in the tenth-floor chapel he now visits the chapel on the second floor of Santa Marta to concelebrate Mass in accordance with the limited capacity previously mentioned the Holy See Press Office's noon bulletin announced the appointments of Archbishop Ignazio Ceffalia as Apostolic Nuncio to Belarus and Monsignor Francesco Ibba as Defender of the Bond at the Roman Rota Tribunal No precise details have been provided regarding the Pope’s schedule for the coming days nor for future events such as the various Jubilee celebrations or Holy Week rites and they are awaiting the “expected clinical improvements.” “Some decisions are under consideration and will be made based on the improvements that occur in the coming week.” the prepared text of the Pope’s catechesis will as has been the case each Wednesday since February 14 The same is likely to happen on Sunday for the Angelus the expectation is that the Pope’s message will be released by the Holy See Press Office is not receiving visitors at this time and has only seen his closest collaborators over the past two days No plans have been announced regarding scheduled visits from Heads of State and government Reports indicate that Pope Francis is happy to be home Both Alfieri and Carbone have previously mentioned the good spirits the Pope regained once his health improved The most dangerous phase of his illness has passed and the most severe infections have been overcome as confirmed in the Gemelli press conference Alfieri revealed that the Pope had faced two critical moments in which his life was at risk In an interview with Italian daily newspaper Corriere della Sera today Alfieri recalled that the most serious moment occurred on the afternoon of February 28 when Francis’ condition worsened due to a bronchospasm crisis "I saw tears in the eyes of some of the people around him—people who as I have come to understand during this hospitalization We were all aware that the situation had deteriorated further and that there was a real risk he might not make it.” "whether to stop and let him go or to push forward with all possible medications and therapies despite the high risk of damaging other organs we chose to fight,” the physician explained adding that the final decision was made by the Pope himself Pope Francis has insisted on being fully informed about his health from day one and he wanted the truth about his condition to be shared,” said Dr Regarding the written updates to press on the Pope's condition Alfieri stated that medical updates were conveyed to Pope Francis' secretaries who added further details before obtaining his approval He has people around him who are like family ​CategoriesCategoriesEnglishGENERALPope Francis dies aged 8821 April 2025 Pope Francis has died at the age of 88 at his residence Casa Santa Marta with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis,” Vatican spokesperson Cardinal Kevin Farrell said in a statement on Easter Monday His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and His Church especially in favour of the poorest and most marginalised.” The Pope had greeted crowds in St Peter’s Square on Sunday Happy Easter.” His traditional Easter address was delivered by a clergy member He was discharged from hospital last month after five weeks of treatment for an infection that led to double pneumonia “Europe mourns the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis,” European Parliament president Roberta Metsola posted on X She said he would be remembered “for his love for life compassion for equality & social justice Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina to Italian parents Francis became the first Pope from South America in March 2013 the first Pope from the southern hemisphere and the first non-European Pope in almost 1,300 years Francis was considered the moderate rival of Joseph Ratzinger He eventually became Pope at the age of 76 surprising many observers who considered him too old to succeed a man who had resigned because of his advanced age he regularly visited the slums of Buenos Aires He spoke out for social justice and against unbridled capitalism and repeatedly advocated action in the fight against global warming the Vatican allowed priests to bless same-sex relationships although a blessing is not equivalent to the sacrament of marriage and is a favour he paid a lot of attention to the poor and refugees but Rome’s positions on abortion and celibacy have changed little in recent years A visit to Belgium in September 2024 was overshadowed by sexual abuse within the Church and his comments on doctors who carry out abortions The issue of abuse in the Church was central to Francis’ visit to Belgium He mentioned sexual abuse on several occasions including during a two-hour meeting with 15 victims he deviated from his prepared text and said the Church should be ashamed and ask for forgiveness Belgian bishops were advised “not to cover up abuse and to condemn abusers” Pope Francis greets crowds following the Easter Mass in St Peter's Square 20 April 2025 © PHOTO VATICAN MEDIA / CPP / HANS LUCAS Copy linkGet updates in your mailboxYour email addressSubscribeBy clicking "Subscribe" I confirm I have read and agree to the Privacy Policy rapid and high-quality information 24 hours a day from Belgium and abroad to all Belgian media not to mention entertainment and lifestyle our journalists and press photographers produce hundreds of photos and news stories Since the end of March 2022 English has been added as a language businesses and various organisations that need reliable information Belga News Agency also offers a comprehensive range of corporate services to meet all their communication needs www.belganewsagency.eu Just a week after the unexpected appearance of the Holy Father in a wheelchair in St Peter’s Square—where 20,000 faithful had gathered for the Jubilee of the Sick—Pope Francis once again stepped outside Casa Santa Marta and spent some time in St a pope with whom Pope Francis has always expressed a deep spiritual bond the news of his presence in the Basilica quickly spread Among them were some restorers working behind protective screens on a couple of projects currently undertaken by the Fabbrica di San Pietro Children approached to receive his blessing and entire groups of pilgrims visiting Rome for the Jubilee crowded forward to catch a glimpse of him “The Pope passed through the Door of Prayer and finally to the tomb of St Pius X to pray,” explained Msgr but his gestures conveyed affection and closeness to those gathered around him Some even lined up for a chance to draw near to the Bishop of Rome whose public appearances have been limited during his convalescence 2025 8:06 AM EDTSome of the last photos known to be taken with Pope Francis before his death were taken with Vice President JD Vance Other final photos of the Pope show him on the Vatican balcony on Easter Sunday Vance met the Pope on Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025, just hours before Francis died at age 88, ABC News reported. The Vatican confirmed the Pope's death in a video statement "Today I met with the Holy Father Pope Francis. I am grateful for his invitation to meet, and I pray for his good health. Happy Easter!" Vance wrote the day before the Pope died, sharing photos to his X page. The Pope's death was announced by the Vatican on the morning of April 21 "At 9:45 AM announced the death of Pope Francis from the Casa Santa Marta with these words:  "Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. At 7:35 this morning His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of His Church,'" the Vatican wrote on its X page Vice President JD Vance and delegation during an audience at Casa Santa Marta on April 20 Vatican Pool/Getty Images After meeting with Vance, the Pope also appearanced on a balcony for Easter Sunday, according to ABC News The Pope died at age 88 after suffering recent pneumonia and respiratory issues that left him hospitalized Pope Francis delivers his Urbi Et Orbi Blessing from the balcony overlooking St NurPhoto/Getty Images Vance "met briefly with Pope Francis on Sunday." The meeting came after the Pope was critical of the administration's immigration policies Vatican Pool/Getty Images three "big chocolate Easter eggs for Vance’s three young children as well as a Vatican tie and rosaries." NurPhoto/Getty Images “I know you have not been feeling great but it’s good to see you in better health,” Vance told the Pope Vance's office said that he “expressed his gratitude to Pope Francis for inviting him to meet on Easter Sunday and for the hospitality the Vatican has extended to his family.” “I pray for you every day,” Vance said as he said goodbye to the Pope Vance was only at the Vatican for 17 minutes By Jessica McBride is a trending reporter for Men's Journal and a national award-winning investigative journalist Pope Francis recovers from bronchitis and continues his audiences at Casa Santa Marta which has led to his public engagements being adapted to his health situation The audiences he had scheduled are taking place at the Casa Santa Marta residence the Holy Father continues to attend to his guests but in a more controlled and comfortable environment for his recovery “The Pope has a slight case of bronchitis and has been medicated although with the necessary modifications to ensure his rest,” Bruni said This is not the first time that the Pope’s health has generated attention he had to cancel his trip to Dubai for COP28 due to a respiratory infection he was also treated with antibiotics and rested at Casa Santa Marta The Pope’s closeness to the faithful and his unwavering commitment to his responsibilities continue to be evident Prayers for his speedy recovery are multiplying in the Catholic community he will be able to resume his usual schedule the Vatican will continue to provide information on his state of health and the adaptation of his activities The Pope's convalescence continues according to the indications of the doctors the Holy See Press Office told journalists on Tuesday morning the Press Office's comments came two days after the Pope's first public and surprise appearance since leaving the hospital At the end of Mass for the Jubilee of the Sick and Healthcare Workers on Sunday greeting and blessing the crowd and telling pilgrims The Press Office conveyed that Pope Francis continues to show clinical improvements as he recovers at his residence in the Casa Santa Marta Pope Francis' condition remains stable and continues showing further slight respiratory the Pope continues with an ordinary administration of oxygen he utilizes high-flow oxygenation with nasal cannulas as needed Pope Francis is in good spirits and continues his work activities noting he receives various documents from Dicasteries the Pope received the Vatican Secretary of State the Pope continues concelebrating daily Mass from the small chapel on the second floor of his residence and his calls to the Holy Family parish in Gaza continue The General Audience originally planned for 9 April will not take place but the text the Pope has prepared for the occasion is expected to be released to journalists as it has been in prior weeks The Press Office noted it is still too early to discuss the Pope's participation in Holy Week liturgies The next briefing on the Holy Father will be on Friday Pope Francis Continues His Convalescence and Concelebrated at Santa Marta He Continues to Receive Medical Treatment and Physical Therapy for His Recovery and celebrating Mass at his residence at Casa Santa Marta the Holy See Press Office reported Tuesday The statement indicated that the Pontiff continues to carry out some work activities although he is not currently receiving visitors no decisions have been made regarding his schedule for the coming weeks The Pope’s convalescence continues at his residence at Casa Santa Marta where he is receiving physical therapy related to mobility and breathing with a particular focus on recovering his voice He is also devoting time to personal prayer and concelebrating Mass in the residence’s chapel the Vatican Press Office shared with accredited journalists updates on the Pope’s health following his discharge from the hospital on Sunday after 38 days of hospitalization at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital due to bilateral pneumonia After greeting 3,000 people from the hospital balcony and making a brief stop at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome the Pope returned to Casa Santa Marta to begin his recovery and rest process who oversaw the Pope’s hospitalization at Gemelli the period of convalescence and rest at Casa Santa Marta should last about “two months.” Both doctors provided these details at a press conference Saturday evening at Gemelli Hospital The Holy See Press Office indicated that the Pope is following the convalescence plan outlined by his doctors he continues oral pharmacological medication and physical therapy related to mobility and breathing Doctors recommended that he avoid gatherings including oxygen therapy and care for possible emergencies This assistance is provided by the Vatican City State Directorate of Health and Hygiene and a medical team is always with the Pope The Pope continues to receive high-flow oxygen through nasal cannulas at night with a gradual reduction in therapy during the day where he concelebrated Mass in the tenth-floor chapel the Pope now visits the chapel on the second floor of Casa Santa Marta to concelebrate Mass he continues to carry out work activities within his limited capacity the Holy See Press Office announced the appointment of Archbishop Ignazio Ceffalia as Apostolic Nuncio to Belarus and Monsignor Francesco Ibba as Defender of the Bond at the Tribunal of the Roman Rota No precise details have been given regarding the Pope’s agenda for the coming days or for future events such as the Jubilee celebrations or Holy Week rites Doctors emphasized that his recovery is being closely monitored and they are awaiting the “expected clinical improvements.” They indicated that some decisions are being considered and will be made based on the improvements that occur in the coming week The General Audience will not be held this Wednesday the written text of the Pope’s catechesis will be distributed as has been the case throughout this month and every Wednesday since February 14 The same will happen on Sunday with the Angelus the Pope’s message is expected to be disseminated by the Holy See Press Office the Pope is not receiving visitors and has only seen his closest collaborators in the last two days No plans have been announced regarding scheduled visits by heads of state or government Alfieri emphasized that the Pope is happy to be home have previously mentioned the Pope’s good spirits following his improved health The most dangerous phase of his illness is behind him and the most serious infections have been overcome as confirmed at the Gemelli press conference Alfieri revealed that the Pope went through two critical moments in which his life was at risk In an interview with the Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera Alfieri recalled that the most serious moment occurred on February 28 when the Pope’s condition worsened due to a bronchospasm attack The Pope has insisted on being fully informed about his health from day one “He asked us to tell him the truth and to share the truth about his condition,” said Dr Regarding the written updates on the Pope’s health Alfieri indicated that the medical reports were passed on to the Pope’s secretaries who added additional details before obtaining his approval “Everything was shared as is,” he stated “without altering or hiding anything United StatesChevron CaliforniaChevron Los AngelesChevron Santa MonicaChevron How did it strike you on arrival?The Italian Renaissance Revival-style building is one of two Santa Monica beach icons—the other being sister-property Shutters on the Beach. The airy lobby—with its rattan ceiling fans, wicker furniture, and lots of greenery—feels like a set from a Nancy Meyers film. Interestingly, what began in 1926 as a private beach club became housing for the Navy in 1941, and in subsequent years the building became a drug rehab facility and the Pritikin Longevity Center. It was finally purchased in 1997 by the owners of Shutters on the Beach, and returned to its former glory in 1999. What’s the crowd like?Leisure travelers and families who want a refined stay close to the beach. Lots of business travelers, too. The good stuff: Tell us about the rooms.There are 129 rooms and 16 suites. They feel incredibly romantic yet residential, with four-poster beds, subtle patterns like navy-and-grey striped throw blankets, crisp white curtains, and potted greenery. There are subtle nods to the beach, including shells displayed on large built-ins that would look great in your living room. And all the colors are soothing pastel shades of blue and green. Palm Terrace Rooms have private patios with loungers, and face a peaceful inner courtyard. We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us?Beds are dressed with Italian linens. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that worth a mention?Rooms come with Keurig coffee machines, while the suites get Nespresso machines. Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.Bathrooms are large, and finished in Italian marble and have whirlpool bathtubs, and products are by Malin + Goetz. The hotel also has an eco-friendly spa offering treatments with Kerstin Florian skincare, emerginC Scientific Organics, and Intraceuticals products. Personal trainers are on hand for circuit training sessions, and there are daily fitness classes like yoga on the beach (private or group). What was most memorable about your stay?The location can’t be beat, and you could spend all day in the lobby. Though the one downside is that there is no terrace off the lobby-level public areas. You get a view of ocean but only through windows that don't open. Bottom line: Why are we choosing Casa del MarFor the views and fairytale four-posted beds. All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. up-to-the-minute voice in all things travel Condé Nast Traveler is the global citizen’s bible and muse We understand that time is the greatest luxury which is why Condé Nast Traveler mines its network of experts and influencers so that you never waste a meal or a hotel stay wherever you are in the world Source: Vatican Media Image: Vatican Media Pope Francis continues to show signs of gradual improvement in his health as he recovers from double pneumonia at Casa Santa Marta Matteo Bruni said on Friday that the Pope's health is stable noting he has shown slight improvements in breathing and movement as well as in his speech The Pope's medical team is gradually reducing the amount of high-flow oxygen he receives through nasal cannulas during the day showed the Pope's haematological parameters are normal Pope Francis is continuing to spend his days alternating between therapy He concelebrates Mass every day in the chapel of the Casa Santa Marta Pope Francis has been praying for for those who have been injured and for "the relief efforts of the firefighters and other emergency personnel" in South Korea's worst-ever wildfires he followed the second Lenten Sermon delivered by Fr Roberto Pasolini He also prayed for the many victims of the earthquake which struck Myanmar on Friday Matteo Bruni said the Holy Father "offered heartfelt prayers for the souls of the deceased and assured his spiritual closeness to all affected by this tragedy." His thoughts also went to all emergency personnel "may be sustained in their care of the injured and displaced by the divine gifts of fortitude and perseverance." Tags: Pope Francis, Casa Santa Marta, Matteo Bruni, South Korea, Myanmar The Popemobile of Peace: Pope Francis' final gift to Gaza Special podcast on legacy of Pope Francis and hopes for future We offer publicity space for Catholic groups/organisations. See our advertising page if you would like more information ICN aims to provide speedy and accurate news coverage of all subjects of interest to Catholics and the wider Christian community As our audience increases - so do our costs You can support our journalism by advertising with us or donating to ICN “You research it, you acknowledge it, and then it inspires and informs your design or your storytelling,” Davies says. “There’s lots of supposed traditions about a conclave. But when you look into that, it goes back hundreds of years, and it’s changed over hundreds of years. Because we were being ambiguous about when this conclave is set, we decided that maybe they’ve changed a tradition or two by now.” “The beauty of this sort of job is that I get the opportunity to go live in these other countries and create other worlds and experience being a designer in a different environment,” Davies says. “Although maybe I was naively excited about the prospect of doing it, because it was a very challenging project.” Movies The character actor emerged from the pandemic more popular than ever: a negroni-mixing food mentor. With “Conclave,” Tucci is here to remind us of his chops. “Edward and I were interested in having a balanced juxtaposition of what we think we know about the Vatican and what we don’t know about the Vatican,” she notes. “And it was up to us to come up with that and to dramatize that element of the environment that the cardinals live in. It was really fun to make it a bit more thriller-esque and underground, and more unnerving and unknown.” Awards Working on the thriller of sorts about selecting a new pope, the actor says it fed her brain and was just what she looks for in a role. The dormitory at Casa Santa Marta, where the cardinals are sequestered, is purposefully more modern than the Sistine Chapel and the other Vatican rooms. Davies wanted to balance the traditional ornate Rome with Brutalist and Fascist architecture, particularly as no one actually knows what the Casa Santa Marta looks like. She took inspiration from Italian architect Carlo Scarpa and gave the space a prison-like atmosphere to emphasize how the cardinals are locked in during the conclave. The actor had worked with the director before on ‘Secrets & Lies,’ so she knew she would build her character — and the story — during rehearsal. “We storyboarded a lot of the bigger sequences, so we knew what we had to achieve,” she recalls. “In some respects that can feel a little restrictive, but Edward does that in order for him to then free-form on the day. His preparation allows for that. It felt like a very creative environment. I’m proud to achieve what we did and to put our own stamp on it.” California intimate peek inside an ancient institution undertaking one of its most secretive rituals.” We spoke with Davies about recreating the Vatican and imbuing the location with mystery and intrigue Conclave is only in theaters October 25, so get tickets now! I’d briefly worked with Edward [Berger] during lockdown on a production that never happened it's shooting in Rome." I was not going to turn down the opportunity to work in Rome for 6 months The fact that Edward told me he wanted it to treat it like a thriller It was not going to be a traditional movie about cardinals but something more like The Parallax View I was envisioning wide-screen intrigue and business happening in hidden I loved that it was going to take a traditional story and turn it on its head Edward Berger and Ralph Fiennes on the set of Conclave we went on a tour of the Vatican to get a sense of the real place we had to figure out how to patch things together to create the look of the space Rome has an extraordinary variety of churches We wanted to juxtapose those familiar spaces of the Vatican with the spaces you don’t know ornate spaces with contemporary architecture As much as we did our research on how the conclave works and the Vatican looks we took artistic license with the private aspects of the Vatican to make a cinematic thriller which is one of the oldest hospitals in the world like ancient corridors and courtyards with hidden library bookcases We had to get clearance to use the art in the Sistine Chapel which weirdly isn’t actually owned by the Sistine Chapel but by a company that's not even Italian I have to get the artwork cleared or I have to make it bespoke we made artwork that was bespoke in the style of or inspired by rather than using The Sistine Chapel is a build that has a set extension We used a blue screen for the ceiling and some of the windows we knew the Cardinals would look extraordinary in their costumes so to juxtapose their grandeur by seeing them on the phone smoking a cigarette or tucking into a bowl of pasta was powerful in the canteen scenes [where the Cardinals took their meals together] we wanted something that contrasted with the ceremony The space is actually a military canteen that was falling down but it had the right structure and a good ceiling I wanted the ceiling to feel quite low like they are living in a bunker especially since everywhere else is open with big You’d think it would be the Sistine Chapel but actually it was the Casa Santa Marta [which is the residence hall for English-speaking priests] I wanted the corridors to feel as long as possible so it was our biggest build we built it right along the Sistine Chapel on the same stage If you went through some of the doors in the Casa Santa Marta It was like a massive jigsaw puzzle in which I ended up using every available space on that sound stage Knowing that it was going to be in wide-screen we tried to create pockets of light and dark in the composition It was sort of playing with frames within frames so we could separate out people and things when we wanted to The sound design was brilliant in creating those echoey hallways and those beautiful costumes—it all worked together The American photographer Saul Leiter and his color palettes gave us the right vibe who took a lot of slightly hidden observational photographs We wanted to create the same feeling you have in her work of being watched or people watching other people like the play of light and dark in the paintings of Caravaggio I hope people come out with an open mind about everything from religion to race to gender This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity