Tens of Thousands Gather for the Funeral of Pope Francis in Rome

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 has died at the age of 88, as confirmed by the Vatican on April 21, 2025. The announcement, made by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, revealed that Francis passed away early this morning, just one day after his appearance at Saint Peter’s Square for Easter. According to reports, he had been recovering from a severe illness that included a 38-day hospitalization for double pneumonia. In accordance with tradition, the College of Cardinals will convene in a conclave at the Sistine Chapel to elect a successor. Only cardinals under 80 years old, totaling about 138 eligible electors from the 252 cardinals, will participate in the voting process. The conclave’s procedures, which have been in place for over 700 years, involve secret ballots with smoke signals indicating the selection outcome. Possible successors include Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State since 2013, and Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, known for his progressive stance and connections to Pope Francis. As the world anticipates the new pontiff, the Vatican prepares for the solemn process of electing the next leader of the Catholic Church.

A 4.4-magnitude earthquake struck the Campi Flegrei area around Naples on March 14, 2025, marking the strongest seismic event in the region in the past 40 years, according to the National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology. The quake occurred at 1:25 AM, with a depth of 2.5 kilometers, prompting terrified residents to flee their homes into the streets. In the aftermath, there were reports of light injuries and significant property damage, particularly in Bagnoli, a seaside district. Images revealed smashed car windows and damage to a local church. Naples Mayor Gaetano Manfredi reported that while one woman sustained injuries from a ceiling collapse, most of the 11 individuals who sought medical attention were suffering from panic attacks rather than serious injuries. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni stated she is closely monitoring the situation. The area has a history of seismic activity due to its status as Europe's largest volcanic caldera, which raises concerns among the approximately 500,000 residents living nearby.