In October 2023, amid the Gaza conflict, Pope Francis made nightly calls to the Holy Family Catholic church in Gaza City, offering support to its Christian community. George Antone, a congregant, was initially speechless when speaking to the Pope, who showed genuine concern for their well-being. Despite his responsibilities, Francis’s consistent calls over 18 months reassured the community they weren’t forgotten. His death was deeply felt, as he had become like a family member. Francis advocated for peace, urging a ceasefire and humanitarian aid for Gaza. Noah Prescott 22/04/2025 6:30 pm
Pope Francis’s funeral is scheduled for Saturday at 10:00 local time in front of St Peter’s Basilica. His body will lie in an open casket at the basilica from Wednesday, allowing public viewing. A procession from the Santa Marta residence to the basilica will occur Wednesday morning, led by Cardinal Kevin Farrell. The funeral service will be conducted by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, with global religious leaders participating. There will be no private viewing for cardinals, per Pope Francis’s wishes. Ava Sinclair 22/04/2025 3:00 pm
In Pahalgam, Kashmir, suspected militants killed five tourists and injured eight others in the worst attack in nearly a year. The “Kashmir Resistance” group claimed responsibility, citing opposition to the settlement of over 85,000 “outsiders” in the region. The injured were hospitalized, and authorities vowed justice. The attack highlights ongoing tensions despite reduced violence in recent years. Noah Prescott 22/04/2025 3:00 pm
Pope Francis expressed gratitude to nurse Massimiliano Strappetti, who cared for him during his illness and hospitalization. Strappetti, credited with saving the Pope’s life by recommending colon surgery, was appointed as his personal healthcare assistant in 2022. He accompanied the Pope during his recovery and on Easter Sunday. The Pope, despite initial hesitation, took a final ride in the popemobile to greet 50,000 faithful in St. Peter’s Square, marking his last public appearance among the faithful. Penelope Kingsley 22/04/2025 3:00 pm
Following Pope Francis’ death at 88, cardinals set his funeral for Saturday in St. Peter’s Square, led by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re. Public respects begin Wednesday at St. Peter’s Basilica. U.S. President Donald Trump and Argentine President Javier Milei plan to attend. Francis, the first Latin American pope, died after a stroke, having recently appeared for Easter blessings. His 12-year papacy focused on revitalizing the church’s mission to aid the poor. Ava Sinclair 22/04/2025 11:30 am
A swimmer is missing after a rare shark attack off northern Israel’s coast near Hadera. Witnesses on Olga Beach captured the incident on video, showing the swimmer flailing in the water. Sharks, usually harmless, gather in the area due to warm water from a power plant. This is only the fourth documented shark attack in Israel’s history, with no fatalities recorded since 1948. Police have closed the beach and are searching for the missing man. Ava Sinclair 22/04/2025 11:30 am
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy accused Russia of violating an Easter ceasefire, despite Putin’s announcement of a truce. Zelenskyy reported continued Russian attacks, including shelling and drone strikes, suggesting either a lack of control by Putin or insincerity in peace efforts. He proposed extending the truce for 30 days. Russia’s Defense Ministry claimed Ukrainian forces attacked during the ceasefire, causing civilian casualties, while asserting Russian compliance with the truce. Noah Prescott 21/04/2025 2:30 pm
Pope Francis has died at 88, ending a transformative pontificate aimed at making the Catholic Church more inclusive. Cardinal Kevin Farrell announced his death, stating Francis “returned to the house of the Father.” Mourners gathered in St. Peter’s Square, reflecting on his recent Easter blessing. The Church now faces a decision on whether to continue his inclusive approach or revert to a more traditional leadership. Noah Prescott 21/04/2025 2:30 pm
Pope Francis, the first Latin American pontiff, has died at 88, the Vatican announced. Known for championing the poor and marginalized, he reshaped the Catholic Church amid resistance. His death follows a recent hospitalization for pneumonia. As the first non-European pope in nearly 1,300 years, Francis advocated for migrants and the environment, facing criticism from conservative forces. His passing prompts a debate on the Church’s future, with cardinals set to gather in Rome to mourn and elect his successor. Ava Sinclair 21/04/2025 11:00 am
Following Pope Francis’s death, the See of Rome is vacant. The College of Cardinals will convene in Rome to elect a new pope. Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Camerlengo, oversees the Church’s operations during this period, including announcing the pope’s death, securing papal properties, and organizing the funeral. The Church continues its functions under Farrell’s temporary leadership until a new pope is elected. Changes to the papal funeral rites, approved by Francis, include placing his body directly in a coffin for veneration. Noah Prescott 21/04/2025 11:00 am
