The Pope Returns to Castel Gandolfo for Summer. And There Will Be Tennis.

For 400 years, most popes escaped the Roman summer in the hilltop town of Castel Gandolfo, Italy. Then Francis stopped going, leaving the town a bit bereft.

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Until 60 Years Ago, New Popes Were Crowned

Pope Leo XIV presided over his inaugural Mass on Sunday. Years ago, it would have included a solemn moment when the pontiff was crowned with an elaborate gold and jewel-encrusted papal tiara.

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Francis Wanted a Church of the Poor and Put It Into Practice

Around St. Peter’s Square, the pope offered services to the homeless and migrants, in ways that often did not go down well with his fellow clerics.

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How Pope Francis Simplified Papal Funerals

The changes reflect Francis’ view of the pope as a pastor more than a powerful person, but the rites will still be on a grand scale.

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Vatican Has a Vacancy, but It Doesn’t Stop Between Popes

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What to Know About Pope Francis’ Death

The pope’s funeral will take place on Saturday. Choosing his successor could take weeks.

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What Are the Plans for Pope Francis’ Funeral?

The timing of Pope Francis’ funeral, which will span several days, has yet to be announced.

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Catholics Around the Globe Heed Francis’ Call to ‘Pray for Me’

The pope’s words emphasized his humility and belief that simple acts of devotion could unite the church. His illness has made the appeal more urgent than ever.

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Anxious Prayers as Pope Francis Lingers in Critical Condition

Eleven days after the pope was hospitalized, speculation is mounting and prayers for his recovery verge on a vigil.

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Francis Is in Critical Condition. What Happens When a Pope Dies?

Time-honored rituals, drafted and refined over centuries, allow for ritual mourning and provide order at a dramatic moment of transition.

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