English Lessons

The Passing of Pope Francis

Pope Francis passed away on Easter Monday at the age of 88. Cardinal Kevin Farrell announced his death at 9:45 AM, stating that Pope Francis died earlier that morning at 7:35. His message described the late Pope as a faithful servant who lived a life of courage, love, and service to the poor and marginalized. Pope Francis was remembered as a true disciple of Jesus Christ, and his passing was met with sorrow and gratitude for his life and legacy.

Later in the day, the Vatican confirmed that Pope Francis' body would be moved to St. Peter’s Basilica on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, so that the public could pay their respects. That evening, a short rite was held at the Pope’s residence to confirm and officially document his death. Cardinal Farrell led the ceremony, and seals were placed on the Pope’s residences. As of Monday night, his closest collaborators began honoring his memory, while cardinals prepared to meet the next day to decide on the funeral arrangements.

I. Matching Type: Match the words on the left with their correct definitions on the right.

II. Fill in the Blanks. Use the words from the vocabulary matching list

remains, announce, faithful, chapel, veneration, rite, marginalized, seals, congregation, legacy,

1. The Cardinal will __________ the Pope’s passing to the public.

2. People around the world showed their __________ by praying at the basilica.

3. The Pope’s __________ will be moved to St. Peter’s Basilica for viewing.

4. A sacred funeral __________ was held in his honor.

5. Pope Francis was known for supporting the poor and __________ in society.

6. The Cardinals will gather in a __________ to plan the funeral.

7. His acts of kindness and leadership are part of his lasting __________.

8. The ceremony was held in the small __________ in his residence.

9. After the ceremony, Vatican officials placed __________ on his living quarters.

10. Many of the __________ mourned the Pope's passing with deep emotion.

III. Open-Ended Questions. Discuss your answers with your teacher.

1. How would you feel if a world leader you respected passed away?
   
   

2. What kind of legacy would you like to leave behind in your life?
   
   

3. Why do you think people gather to honor the dead in ceremonies?
   
   

4. If you were a Cardinal, what would you say about Pope Francis’ life?
   
   

5. How do religious leaders influence the lives of ordinary people?

Thank you!

Source: https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2025-04/pope-francis-dies-on-easter-monday-aged-88.html