A mass is being held at St. Joseph of Flores Church in San Isidro, Buenos Aires, Argentina, the church where Pope Francis said he discovered his vocation at the age of 17.
-ABC News’ Ellie Kaufman
Apr 21, 2025, 4:03 PM PDT
General Congregation of Cardinals to Begin Tuesday
Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, the dean of the College of Cardinals, sent a letter to all cardinals — electors and non-electors — on Monday, summoning them to the general congregation, which will begin on Tuesday at 9 a.m. local time. The meeting will take place in the Synod Hall inside Vatican City. The cardinals are expected to discuss matters such as the dates for Pope Francis’ funeral and the start of the conclave.
-ABC News’ Ellie Kaufman
Apr 21, 2025, 4:03 PM PDT
Countries Declare Periods of Mourning for Pope Francis’ Death
Following the passing of Pope Francis, governments and leaders worldwide have joined Catholics and non-Catholics in mourning. Mourning periods vary, from three days (in countries such as Chile, the Dominican Republic, Lebanon, and Spain) to nine days, the traditional mourning period at the Vatican, called Novemdiales, which includes daily masses and ceremonies in memory of the pope.
Other countries that have announced mourning periods include Argentina, Brazil, and East Timor, all of which extend to one week. Additionally, several governments, including those of the United States, Australia, and the United Kingdom, have ordered flags to fly at half-mast.
-ABC News’ Ellie Kaufman and Dada Jovanovic
Apr 21, 2025, 1:18 PM PDT
Empire State Building to Honor Pope Francis
The Empire State Building in New York City will illuminate in gold and white on Monday night to honor Pope Francis.
-ABC News’ Ellie Kaufman
Apr 21, 2025, 1:08 PM PDT
Pope Francis’ Personal Residence Sealed Shut
Photos captured the moment when the door to Pope Francis’ personal residence was closed and sealed on Monday. Cardinal Camerlengo Kevin Joseph Farrell sealed the door to the papal bedroom and studio at the Vatican after the announcement of Pope Francis’ death. Seals were placed on the Apostolic Palace following his passing.
-ABC News’ Ellie Kaufman
Apr 21, 2025, 1:04 PM PDT
Trump to Attend Pope Francis’ Funeral
President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump announced they will attend Pope Francis’ funeral, with the president sharing his plans in a post on Truth Social. “We look forward to being there!” Trump wrote.
-ABC News’ Michelle Stoddart
Apr 21, 2025, 12:41 PM PDT
Pope Francis and Trump’s Clashes Over Migrant Treatment
While offering brief condolences following Pope Francis’ death, President Donald Trump and the late pope clashed repeatedly over how to treat migrants, beginning as early as Trump’s 2016 presidential campaign. Pope Francis had criticized Trump’s stance on mass deportations, calling it a disgrace that unfairly burdens the poor.
-ABC News’ Michelle Stoddart
Apr 21, 2025, 11:21 AM PDT
Vatican Releases Pope Francis’ Will
The Vatican has released Pope Francis’ will, revealing his desire to be buried in the Basilica of Saint Mary Major. “The tomb must be in the earth; simple, without particular decoration, and with the only inscription: Franciscus,” he stated.
-ABC News’ Phoebe Natanson
Apr 21, 2025, 11:18 AM PDT
Pope Francis’ Death Certificate Released
The Vatican has released Pope Francis’ death certificate, confirming that he passed away in his apartment at 7:35 a.m. from cerebral stroke, coma, and irreversible cardiocirculatory collapse. The certificate notes that he had also suffered from acute respiratory failure, bilateral pneumonia, bronchiectasis, hypertension, and type II diabetes.
-ABC News’ Phoebe Natanson
Apr 21, 2025, 11:05 AM PDT
Rosary Prayer Service Underway in St. Peter’s Square
A rosary prayer service is currently underway in St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City, as mourners gather to pray for the late Pope Francis. Cardinal Mauro Gambetti, the archpriest of Saint Peter’s Basilica, led the opening prayers, acknowledging Pope Francis’ request for prayers for himself and now, in turn, offering prayers for him.
-ABC News’ Phoebe Natanson
Apr 21, 2025, 10:33 AM PDT
Kamala Harris Calls Pope Francis ‘A Visionary Leader’
Former Vice President Kamala Harris expressed deep admiration for Pope Francis, calling him “a visionary leader who dedicated his life to service and justice.” She highlighted his advocacy for the environment, inclusivity in the church, and care for the most vulnerable. “Doug and I pray for His Holiness, and we join people around the world in mourning his loss,” she added.
-ABC News’ Phoebe Natanson