After spending weeks in critical condition with a life-threatening respiratory infection, controversial Pope Francis passed away in his apartment at 7:35 am after suffering a cerebral stroke and subsequent heart attack. The Trump Administration commented on the death of the Pope. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, a devout Catholic, expressed his condolences and mentioned the “period of transition” which will bring on a “Conclave” to pick the next Pope.
“On Easter Monday, Jeanette and I are saddened to the news of Pope Francis' passing. We unite in prayer with Catholics worldwide for the repose of the pontiff's soul and for this period of transition for the Catholic Church. May He rest in peace,” stated Secretary Rubio.
Vice President J.D. Vance, who saw the Pontiff on Easter Sunday in the Vatican, stated that Pope Francis was “obviously very ill” when the two men met.
“My heart goes out to the millions of Christians all over the world who loved him. I was happy to see him yesterday, though he was obviously very ill. But I’ll always remember him for the homily he gave in the very early days of COVID. It was really quite beautiful. May God rest his soul,” said VP Vance.
The Vatican will now focus on picking a new Pope. The College of Cardinals will select a new Pope during the Conclave, which begins 15 to 20 days after the pontiff’s death.
