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Zelenskyy, World Leaders Gather At Vatican For Pope Leo’s Momentous Inauguration

May 18, 2025, 3:21 am

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will be among many international leaders present at the first Mass of newly elected Pope Leo this Sunday, the Vatican said. The ceremony, conducted in St. Peter’s Square, will formally induct Pope Leo born in Chicago and partly brought up in Peru as the world’s spiritual leader of 1.4 billion Catholics.

Heading the US delegation will be Vice President JD Vance, who famously had a falling out with Zelenskyy in a February White House meeting. Also making an appearance will be Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Zelenskyy’s senior aide disclosed that the Ukrainian president is willing to meet other global leaders on the sidelines of the summit. Importantly, Zelenskyy had previously spoken with former US President Donald Trump in the Vatican for Pope Francis funeral in April.

Before the Mass, Rubio is set to see Pope Francis former envoy on the Russia-Ukraine war, Cardinal Matteo Zuppi. Rubio had proposed that the Vatican might be an impartial location for negotiations that will end the current war. “I wouldn’t say a broker, but it’s definitely a place that I would think both parties would feel comfortable coming to,” Rubio replied to reporters.

Other guests include the presidents of Israel, Peru, and Nigeria, Italian, Canadian, and Australian prime ministers, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz; and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. European monarchs like Spain’s King Felipe and Queen Letizia will be present. Russia will be represented by Culture Minister Olga Lyubimova.

The fact that such varied leaders attended highlights the international importance of Pope Leo’s installation and the Vatican’s ongoing involvement in world diplomacy.

Pope Leo XIV To Break Tradition Of Simplicity With Move To Lavish Grand Vatican Palace

May 16, 2025, 11:37 pm

Pope Leo XIV will reportedly make the Apostolic Palace his official home, restoring papal tradition after more than ten years. The move heralds an end to the austerity adopted by the late Pope Francis, who shunned the luxury of the palace for the comfort of the humble Vatican Santa Marta hotel.

As per senior Vatican officials who were interviewed by Reuters, Leo XIV will settle into the Apostolic Palace after his first Mass this Sunday. The palace, the 16th-century architectural icon atop St. Peter’s Square, contains the papal apartments on its upper floor. The apartment consists of around 10 rooms, including a private chapel, bedroom, study, and dining room.

Renovation activities are currently being undertaken to get the residence ready, such as updating bathrooms and treating wall dampness, according to Italian media. The officials said the move would also make security arrangements easier, as the palace provides more regulated access than the hotel building Pope Francis preferred.

Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni refused to confirm the move in public. Pope Leo XIV, who was previously Cardinal Robert Prevost, was elected on May 8th and is the first American to ever hold the papacy. He is staying temporarily in his old apartment inside the Vatican’s doctrinal office complex off St. Peter’s.

Pope Francis, who died on April 21 after serving as pontiff for 12 years, famously broke with tradition by refusing the palace’s opulent facilities in favor of communal living at the Santa Marta guesthouse. Although he conducted official meetings and gave weekly Sunday prayers from the palace, he never stopped saying that a less-fancy dwelling was more conducive to his mental well-being.

The Apostolic Palace has not been occupied since February 2013, the time when Pope Benedict XVI resigned and vacated the dwelling. With the relocation of Pope Leo XIV, the palace will again serve as a dynamic symbol of papal influence.

Pope Leo XIV Confesses Love for Tennis to Jannik Sinner in Vatican Meet

May 16, 2025, 2:20 pm

In a session that mixed spirituality with sportsmanship, Italian tennis ace Jannik Sinner met Pope Leo XIV on Wednesday at the Vatican, just days before playing in the Italian Open. Sinner, along with his parents and officials from the Italian Tennis Federation, had a private audience with the newly elected pontiff, who is famous for his love of tennis.

The Vatican confirmed the encounter, which soon became popular for its levity. Pope Leo XIV, previously US Cardinal Robert Prevost, was in the news earlier in the week when he quipped, “Just don’t bring Sinner,” cleverly referencing the athlete’s last name in a Catholic pun.

Un onore immenso incontrare Papa Leone XIV

? Vatican Media pic.twitter.com/HUxK79USp1

— Jannik Sinner (@janniksin) May 14, 2025

Sinner reacted graciously and humorously when questioned over the pope’s comment in a press conference. Blushing and hiding his face, he jokingly said, “Why do you have to put me in a difficult spot?” before going on to say, “Clearly, I heard that he played as a child. I think it’s a good thing for us tennis players to have a pope who enjoys this sport that we’re playing.”

From racket to reverence

As a gesture of gratitude, Sinner gave Pope Leo XIV one of his tennis rackets. Though there was a lighthearted offer to have the two knock a ball about, the pontiff, glancing upwards at the high ceiling of the reception room, laughed it aside. “Better not,” he said, bringing smiles from everyone present.

The pope’s interest in tennis is not merely symbolic. In a 2023 interview, he referred to himself as “quite the amateur tennis player,” which implies that his involvement in the sport is more than mere casual interest.

A common appreciation for the sport

While the Italian Open was being played close to the Vatican, Sinner’s encounter with the pope could not have occurred at a more significant time. Just back on court following a three-month suspension for a doping offense, Sinner’s visit to the Vatican marked a public and personal comeback.

This unforgettable convergence of a young tennis great and a spiritually oriented sports fan in Pope Leo XIV is a reminder of the lingua franca of sport and the happiness it brings, be it on the court or in the Vatican walls.

Pope Leo XIV Makes First Public Outing, Pays Respects To Predecessor Francis

May 11, 2025, 3:03 am

Pope Leo XIV, elected only three days ago on May 8, made his first external trip from the Vatican on Saturday in a milestone of his papacy. The new pontiff, once US Cardinal Robert Prevost, traveled to a Catholic shrine outside Genazzano, some one hour east of Rome, before going to Rome’s St. Mary Major Basilica to pay tribute to his late predecessor, Pope Francis.

When Pope Leo XIV arrived at the basilica, the assembled faithful cheered and sang out “Viva il Papa” in honor of the deceased. He moved towards Pope Francis humble grave, where he stopped to set a white flower down and kneel in prayer for a couple of moments in remembrance. The action made reference to continuity in the papacy and how much respect he held for the former pope who died on April 21.

Earlier during the day, Pope Leo XIV had gone to the Shrine of Our Lady of Good Counsel in Genazzano, a place of personal interest to him as an Augustinian. There, he met a few of the faithful, giving them blessings and prayers for direction in the early stages of his papacy.

Pope Francis, who was a great believer in Marian shrines, had selected St. Mary Major for burial. His grave, simply marked by his name in Latin, attracted more than 30,000 people in the days after his death.

Saturday’s journey is an echo of Pope Leo XIV’s modest start as head of the Catholic Church, highlighting both his link to the past and his dedication to the future of the Vatican.

From Chicago To The Vatican: Robert Prevost Becomes First US Pope, Takes Name Leo XIV

May 8, 2025, 11:12 pm

In a milestone moment for the Roman Catholic Church, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of the United States has been chosen as the 267th pope.

The news was announced Thursday from St. Peter’s Square, where white smoke announced the decision of the conclave. Prevost, age 69, a native of Chicago, Illinois, is the first American to preside over the worldwide Catholic community.

Assuming the title Pope Leo XIV, he now assumes the position of spiritual head for more than 1.4 billion Catholics across the globe.

A veteran cardinal officially announced his election to the jubilant crowds outside St. Peter’s Basilica, ushering in a new era in Church history.

New Pope Elected! White Smoke Signals Historic Moment In Vatican’s Sacred Ritual | WATCH

May 8, 2025, 10:44 pm

The Catholic Church has a new pope! White smoke billowed from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel, announcing the end of the papal conclave. Following their strenuous deliberations, the 133 cardinals voted and selected the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics’ next leader.

White Smoke. Habemus Papam. We have a Pope pic.twitter.com/glXeqKf3cQ

— Catholic Sat (@CatholicSat) May 8, 2025

Cardinal Dominique Mamberti will deliver the news of the name of the new pope from St. Peter’s Basilica, and the pope will then have his first outing to welcome the faithful. During the conclave, the cardinals were in seclusion, not allowed access to the external world, such that the entire selection process remains confidential and austere.

The election is a pivotal time for the Church, as it brings with it a new leadership era. The new pope’s identity is kept under wraps until the formal announcement, heightening the excitement among millions of Catholics across the globe.

Black Smoke Rises From Vatican As Cardinals Fail To Elect New Pope In First Vote | WATCH

May 8, 2025, 12:55 am

Black smoke poured out of the Sistine Chapel chimney on Tuesday, an indication that the College of Cardinals has not yet come up with a decision in electing a new pope in the first round of voting.

This result was expected to some extent, as there are 133 cardinal electors in attendance many of whom are new appointments made by Pope Francis and who are yet to get to know each other. This unfamiliarity would, of course, extend the process of decision-making, as the cardinals try to find the right individual to take control of the Catholic Church.

Black smoke emerged from the chimney over the Sistine Chapel at 21:00 on Wednesday evening, signalling that a first ballot has been held at the conclave and has concluded without the election of a Pope.https://t.co/hlmAJdskTO pic.twitter.com/AKxuUbDK2g

— Vatican News (@VaticanNews) May 7, 2025

Though the slowdown has generated attention, Vatican watchers warn against speculation, referring to the broad range of possible variables at play.

The conclave will resume for further rounds of voting on Wednesday, with a maximum of four votes: two in the morning and two in the afternoon. Until white smoke signals agreement, the world will remain in suspense waiting for the next pontiff to be announced.

Pope Francis No Longer Requires Ventilation As Health Improves, Vatican Reports

March 20, 2025, 2:09 am

Pope Francis has suspended the use of mechanical ventilation to support breathing at night, and his physicians remain hopeful of his sustained recovery, the Vatican said on Wednesday.

The 88-year-old pope has been in hospital care at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital for almost five weeks for a serious respiratory infection. His situation has been slowly improving, the latest medical report said.

The clinical status of the Holy Father is confirmed to be improving,” the Vatican said in a statement.

While he was in the hospital, Pope Francis had been receiving non-invasive mechanical ventilation overnight, which means a face mask that assists in pushing air into the lungs. But this assistance has now been suspended. Although he no longer needs the ventilation, he is still getting oxygen through a thin nasal tube, the Vatican confirmed.

Physicians feel that the infection is under control and Francis no longer has fever. His blood work returned to normal levels, indicating unflinching progress toward recovery.

Although these developments were promising, the Vatican did not release a timeline for his discharge, reiterating that his recovery is slow. For the last two weeks, his condition had been noted as stable or improving.

Francis has a past history of lung problems, having had an operation in early adulthood to have half a lung removed because of pleurisy. This predisposes him to respiratory infections.

Aside from lung treatment, the pope has been receiving respiratory physiotherapy to facilitate breathing and physical therapy to enhance mobility. He has been using a wheelchair in recent years because of chronic back and knee pain.

Medical professionals not directly treating him warn that, considering his age and underlying conditions, his road to complete recovery could be long and difficult.

Vatican Nuns Comfort Callers Worried About Pope’s Health

March 15, 2025, 11:38 pm

VATICAN CITY: As Pope Francis remains hospitalized in Rome, the nuns operating the Vatican’s switchboard are receiving a growing number of anxious calls from concerned believers worldwide. Many callers seek updates on the Pope’s health, wish to send their prayers, or even request to speak with him directly.

Providing Comfort and Guidance

Sister Anthony, who oversees the operation, describes how callers feel like “children waiting to know about their father.” The nuns, belonging to the Pious Disciples of the Divine Master, answer each call with patience, offering reassurance and encouraging prayers for the Pope.

Unlike automated phone systems used by most institutions, the Vatican maintains a personal approach. Mother Micaela, the order’s mother superior, emphasizes that the Vatican values “a human voice” over digital communication.

A Tradition of Service

Since 1970, the Pious Disciples sisters have managed the Vatican switchboard, covering the phones 12 hours a day, seven days a week. A team of about a dozen nuns, hailing from Italy, the Philippines, and Poland, handle 50-70 calls daily in multiple languages, primarily Italian, English, and Spanish.

Addressing Different Needs

Most callers need directions to the right Vatican office, which the sisters provide using their knowledge and large yearbooks. Some call seeking financial aid, in which case they are redirected to the Vatican almoner’s office, which recently assisted victims of war in Ukraine, Brazil’s floods, and homelessness in Naples.

However, not all calls are straightforward. Some callers, unaware of the Pope’s busy schedule, ask to speak with him directly. Others, struggling with personal crises, seek emotional support.

“We try to provide comfort within our limits,” says Sister Anthony, who previously served as a provincial superior in the Philippines.

A Woman’s Voice in the Vatican

The nuns feel honored to serve as a compassionate voice in the Vatican. “Pope Francis reminds us that the Church is like a mother,” says Mother Micaela. “This feminine approach gives people a sense of reliability.”

With 1,100 women working at the Vatican, the sisters take pride in their unseen yet crucial role. “Knowing that women are taking on more responsibilities here, we feel very empowered,” Sister Anthony adds.

As the Holy Year 2025 approaches, bringing millions of pilgrims to Rome, the sisters expect an even higher volume of calls. No matter how busy they become, their mission remains the same—offering kindness, guidance, and a reassuring presence to all who reach out.

Pope Francis Shows Steady Recovery, No Longer In Immediate Danger Says Vatican

March 11, 2025, 3:22 am

Pope Francis is no longer in immediate danger as he continues to recover from double pneumonia, the Vatican said on Monday. The 88-year-old pontiff, who has been in hospital at Rome’s Gemelli hospital for more than three weeks, is recovering well from the illness.

Francis was admitted on February 14 with a serious respiratory infection that needed intensive medical treatment. But the Vatican’s most recent medical bulletin reported major improvement, saying doctors had removed their earlier “guarded” prognosis, meaning he is no longer in critical condition.

The progress noted in past days has continued to consolidate, as attested by blood work and clinical evaluations, and good response to medication therapy,” the statement said.

Even with his improvement, doctors have ordered the pope to stay in the hospital for more treatment. No exact time frame has been indicated for his release.

The pope has been stable or recovering the last week following two severe cases of acute respiratory insufficiency on March 3. The pope continues his respiratory physiotherapy to support his breathing and remains on oxygen therapy, sporting a nasal oxygen hose during the day and a non-invasive mechanical ventilation apparatus at night.

Meanwhile, the Vatican affirmed that Francis, who has ridden a wheelchair since recent years in response to back and knee pain, is receiving physical therapy for continued mobility.

Though under medical watch, the pope’s consistent progress comes as welcome assurance to the faithful. The Vatican has yet to announce his resumption of public activities but the officials remain optimistic about his on-going recovery.

Pope Francis Responding Well to Hospital Treatment, Says Vatican

March 9, 2025, 12:17 am

Pope Francis is recovering well from double pneumonia treatment and is improving gradually, the Vatican confirmed on Saturday. The 88-year-old pontiff has been under treatment at Rome’s Gemelli hospital for more than three weeks after contracting a serious respiratory infection.

Pope’s Health Condition Remains Stable

A thorough medical update from the Vatican reported, “The clinical condition of the Holy Father in recent days has remained stable and, consequently, indicates a good response to the treatment.”

The report also established that Francis has not had a fever, and his blood test results are stable. Physicians noticed “a gradual, slight improvement” in his general condition but kept their guard up to make sure the improvement persists.

Extended Hospitalization Raises Concerns

Pope Francis has not appeared in public since he was hospitalized, his longest absence from public view since becoming pope 12 years ago. His doctors have not released a projected date for his discharge.

Independent medical experts outside his care estimate recovery to be protracted based on his age and prior medical ailments. Francis has experienced numerous recent health reversals and is susceptible to infections in his lungs even after undergoing removal of a segment of a lung during his young adult years.

The Vatican has been taking a cautiously optimistic note in recent news. Earlier it was reported that the pope had experienced two spells of “acute respiratory insufficiency” on March 3. Despite those setbacks, the doctors are optimistic that his treatment is bearing fruits.

Double pneumonia, which inflames and scars both lungs, may lead to severe breathing problems, especially in older people. The Vatican remains close to monitoring his health, providing him with the required medical attention.

The Catholic world around the globe continues to hope for the complete recovery of Pope Francis. Although his health has been weak over the past few years, Vatican officials are hopeful about his recovery.

Pope Francis’ Health “Stable But Complex,” Vatican Confirms

March 8, 2025, 3:05 am

Vatican City: Pope Francis remains in a “stable but complex” condition as he continues treatment for pneumonia at Rome’s Gemelli hospital, the Vatican confirmed on Friday.

The 88-year-old pontiff has faced multiple respiratory crises since his admission on February 14. Concern grew after the Vatican released an audio message on Thursday, in which Francis sounded weak and breathless while addressing pilgrims.

Pope’s Breathless Message Sparks Concerns

In the message, broadcast in St. Peter’s Square, Pope Francis thanked people for their prayers and extended blessings.

“I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your prayers for my health. May God bless you and the Virgin protect you,” he said, his voice noticeably strained.

His choice to speak in Spanish, rather than Italian, fueled speculation about his condition. However, a Vatican spokesperson clarified that he wanted to address a wider audience.

Vatican’s Health Update

The Vatican assured that the pope is stable but emphasized that his clinical condition remains complex. He continues to use an oxygen mask at night and high-flow oxygen therapy during the day.

Pope Francis has spent his time resting, praying, and doing light physiotherapy. He also visited the small chapel inside the hospital for prayers.

Pilgrims React to Pope’s Message

The pope’s message sparked mixed reactions among the faithful. Some saw it as a hopeful sign, while others were concerned about his frail voice.

“It’s a good sign that he is able to speak,” said John Maloney, a pilgrim from England. Meanwhile, Claudia Bianchi, a visitor from Rome, admitted, “It struck me to hear him so tired.”

Speculation and Vatican Transparency

The Vatican has faced increasing speculation regarding Pope Francis’ health, with some rumors even suggesting his condition was more severe than reported. To counter misinformation, the Vatican has been releasing daily updates, including details about how the pope slept.

Although Pope Francis has previously appeared on the hospital balcony for Sunday prayers, he has missed the last three appearances. It remains unclear if he will make one this weekend.

The Pope’s Health History

This is Pope Francis’ longest and most serious hospitalization since becoming the head of the Catholic Church. He has undergone multiple medical procedures in recent years, including colon surgery in 2021 and a hernia operation in 2023.

On multiple occasions since February, he has suffered respiratory crises, with the most recent episodes occurring on March 3. Doctors continue to monitor his condition closely.

As speculation about his potential resignation grows, the Vatican maintains that Pope Francis is focused on recovery and his duties.

Pope Francis Faces Kidney Issues Amid Pneumonia Treatment

February 24, 2025, 2:10 am

Pope Francis, who has been receiving treatment for double pneumonia at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital since February 14, is now facing an additional health challenge—slight renal insufficiency. The Vatican confirmed that while his condition remains critical, his kidney function is currently under control.

Respiratory Crisis and Oxygen Therapy

The Vatican revealed that Pope Francis recently experienced a prolonged asthma-like respiratory crisis, requiring a blood transfusion. However, since last night, he has not faced any further respiratory distress. Doctors have placed him on high-flow oxygen therapy to aid his breathing.

Past Health Struggles

At 88 years old, Pope Francis has battled several health issues in recent years. He is particularly vulnerable to lung infections due to a history of pleurisy, which led to the removal of part of his lung when he was a young adult.

Public Prayers and Support

Outside Gemelli Hospital, well-wishers gathered near the statue of Pope John Paul II, who was also treated at the facility multiple times. Many left flowers, notes, and candles, offering prayers for the pontiff’s recovery.

Doctors Remain Cautious

While the Vatican assures that Pope Francis is alert and well-oriented, they emphasize that his condition remains complex and requires ongoing medical observation. Doctors are waiting to see how his pharmacological treatments take effect before making any prognosis.

Conclusion

As Pope Francis continues his battle with double pneumonia and kidney insufficiency, the world watches and prays for his recovery. His medical team remains vigilant, ensuring he receives the best possible care.

Pope Francis’ Health Worsens Amid Severe Respiratory Crisis

February 23, 2025, 12:19 am

Pope Francis’ health has taken a critical turn as he battles double pneumonia, the Vatican confirmed on Saturday. The 87-year-old pontiff has experienced a “prolonged asthma-like respiratory crisis,” requiring high-flow oxygen support and blood transfusions.

Pontiff’s Worsening Health Condition

The Vatican statement highlighted that Pope Francis was “more unwell than yesterday” and experiencing increased discomfort. Despite being alert and spending the day in an armchair, his condition remains serious. Daily blood tests revealed signs of anemia, necessitating urgent blood transfusions.

Doctors Warn of Potential Sepsis Risk

Medical experts emphasize that the primary concern is the possible onset of sepsis—a life-threatening blood infection that can result from pneumonia. However, as of Friday, tests showed no signs of sepsis, and the Pope has been responding to medications.

Vatican’s Official Update

“The Holy Father continues to be monitored closely. While he remains alert, he is experiencing more pain than before, and his prognosis remains uncertain,” the Vatican’s official statement read.

The Pope’s medical team continues to monitor his condition, ensuring he receives the best possible care during this health crisis.

Amid Double Pneumonia, Pope Francis Takes Steps to Protect His Legacy

February 19, 2025, 1:19 pm

Pope Francis, 88, is facing a serious health crisis. The Vatican confirmed on Tuesday that he has developed bilateral pneumonia, a severe lung infection. He has been hospitalized at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital since February 14 after struggling with bronchitis for over a week.

Doctors performed a chest X-ray and laboratory tests, which showed a “complex clinical picture.” The Vatican stated that he is battling a “polymicrobial infection” and needs corticosteroid and antibiotic therapy. This has made treatment more difficult. Despite his condition, the statement assured that “Pope Francis remains in good spirits.”

Doctors have not placed him on a ventilator, and he continues to breathe on his own. However, his history of lung complications makes him more vulnerable. As a young man, he suffered from pleurisy and had part of one lung removed.

Rushing to Secure His Legacy

As his health worsens, Pope Francis is making urgent decisions to shape his legacy. A Politico report revealed that he has privately admitted, “he won’t make it this time.” Initially, he refused hospital care, but doctors warned him that staying in his Vatican residence could be fatal.

In the past few weeks, he has pushed forward key appointments. On Saturday, he named Sister Raffaella Petrini as the first woman governor of Vatican City. She will take charge on March 1. Earlier, on February 6, he extended the term of Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re as dean of the College of Cardinals.

Though Re is too old to vote in the next conclave, he will play a key role in the discussions leading up to it. A Vatican insider emphasized, “The run-up to the conclave is more important as that’s where lobbying goes on.”

Struggles with Ongoing Health Issues

Pope Francis has faced several health challenges in recent years. He frequently battles the flu, suffers from sciatic nerve pain, and underwent abdominal hernia surgery in 2023.

Despite his struggles, he remains grateful for the support he has received. As the Vatican monitors his condition, the world awaits his next steps and the future of the Catholic Church.

Vatican Criticizes Paris Olympics Opening Ceremony For Offensive Depiction Of Christian Imagery

August 4, 2024, 4:39 pm

The Vatican expressed its disappointment over certain scenes from the Paris Olympics opening ceremony, which it claimed offended Christians. The controversy centers around a segment featuring dancers and drag queens that some viewers felt resembled depictions of the Last Supper, a significant Christian icon.

The Holy See stated, “In a prestigious event where the whole world comes together around common values, there should not be allusions ridiculing the religious beliefs of many people.” The statement emphasized that while freedom of expression is important, it should not come at the expense of respecting others’ beliefs.

The segment, titled “Festivity,” included a long table with dancers and drag queens, which was intended to represent a pagan feast led by the Greek god Dionysus. Despite this explanation from organizers, criticism has been widespread.

The controversy has drawn responses from global figures, including Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, former US President Donald Trump, and Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, all condemning the portrayal as a mockery of Christianity.

The show’s artistic director, Thomas Jolly, defended the performance as a message of love and inclusion. The Games’ organizing committee spokesperson, Anne Descamps, apologized for any offense caused.

Former Pope Benedict XVI dies at 95

December 31, 2022, 3:56 pm

Former Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI passes away at 95 in Vatican city. Within the walls of the Vatican Benedict spent his final years at the Mater Ecclesiae monastery.

Meanwhile, a statement was issued by the Vatican, “With sorrow, I inform you that the Pope Emeritus, Benedict XVI, passed away today at 9:34 in the Mater Ecclesiae Monastery in the Vatican.”

“Further information will be provided as soon as possible,” the Vatican statement reads.

Moreover, from 2 January the body of Pope Emeritus will be placed in St Peter’s Basilica for “the greeting of the faithful”.

For some time the former pontiff had been ill and because of advancing age, there was an aggravation in his condition.

Earlier on Wednesday, at the Vatican Pope Francis appealed to his final audience of the year to “pray a special prayer for Pope Emeritus Benedict.”

Talking about Pope Benedict the head of the Catholic Church in England and Wales, Cardinal Vincent Nichols, said “Pope Benedict was one of the great theologians of the 20th century”.

“I remember with particular affection the remarkable Papal Visit to these lands in 2010. We saw his courtesy, his gentleness, the perceptiveness of his mind, and the openness of his welcome to everybody that he met,” the statement reads.

“He was through and through a gentleman, through and through a scholar, through and through a pastor, through and through a man of God – close to the Lord and always his humble servant,” Nichols said.

Former Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI was born in Joseph Ratzinger in Germany and when he became one of the oldest popes he was 78 in 2005.

However, in 2022 the former Pope admitted that from 1977 to 1982 mistakes were made in the treatment of abuse cases when he was archbishop of Munich.

Former Pope Benedict XVI passes away

December 31, 2022, 3:53 pm

Former Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI passes away at 95 in Vatican city. Within the walls of the Vatican Benedict spent his final years at the Mater Ecclesiae monastery.

Meanwhile, a statement was issued by the Vatican, “With sorrow, I inform you that the Pope Emeritus, Benedict XVI, passed away today at 9:34 in the Mater Ecclesiae Monastery in the Vatican.”