Pope Francis in Critical Condition Following Respiratory Crisis

Italy's Mount Etna erupted on June 2, 2025, sending ash, rock, and molten lava into the air, prompting tourists to evacuate. According to the Italian National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology Observatory, the eruption sends ash and gases "several kilometres high," with explosions audible up to 50 kilometers away. The renowned volcano, located on Sicily, attracts around 1.5 million visitors each year. Authorities reported a "partial collapse" on the northern flank of the volcano’s southeast crater, which is classified as a pyroclastic eruption. This intense volcanic activity resulted in dangerous gases and lava flows; however, no major injuries were reported. Local officials stated that evacuation orders were unnecessary as nearby towns remained safe and prepared for eruptions. Sicily's president, Renato Schifani, reassured the public that lava flows had not breached containment areas. Flight operations have been affected, with a Volcanic Observatory Notice for Aviation issued to avoid the region, although Catania and Palermo airports remain open.

In a powerful inaugural address from St. Peter's Basilica, Pope Leo XIV called on world leaders to commit to "no more war" during his first Sunday speech. He specifically urged for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, a resolution to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, and lasting peace between India and Pakistan. The Pope described the recent fragile ceasefire between India and Pakistan as a beacon of hope and prayed for a "miracle of peace" through faith and unity. Quoting his predecessor, Pope Francis, he lamented the numerous conflicts affecting the globe, declaring it a "third world war in pieces." His remarks resonated with an estimated gathering of 100,000 people in St. Peter's Square and along the Via della Conciliazione. The Pope's call for peace comes amid heightened global tensions, underscoring the urgency for diplomatic resolutions in volatile regions. Pope Leo XIV’s message served as a reminder of the Church's commitment to peace, urging action from leaders across the world, according to reports from various news agencies.

Pope Francis's funeral took place today in St. Peter’s Square, Rome, attended by dignitaries from 170 foreign delegations and tens of thousands of mourners. The ceremony, conducted by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, began at 10 a.m. local time, marking a significant farewell to the pope, who passed away at age 88 following a stroke earlier this week, as reported by the Vatican. Francis’s body lay in state in St. Peter’s Basilica from Wednesday to Friday, allowing more than 150,000 people to pay their respects. His final resting place will be the Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica, a departure from traditional practices, with the pontiff requesting a humble burial devoid of ornate decoration. The public will have access to his tomb starting Sunday morning. Moreover, all Serie A matches scheduled for today have been postponed as a sign of respect. The Vatican confirmed that a conclave to elect Francis's successor will commence within the next few weeks, adhering to papal traditions, according to various sources.