Mon Apr 21 08:17:49 UTC 2025: ## Papal Ring Destroyed Following Death of Pope Francis
**Rome, April 21, 2025** – Following the death of Pope Francis at age 88, the Fisherman’s Ring, a significant symbol of papal authority, has been destroyed. This traditional act, carried out by a member of the papal household, marks the end of his papacy. The ring, bearing the image of St. Peter and the Pope’s name, was previously used to seal official documents. While no longer used for this purpose, the ring remains a powerful symbol of the Pope’s office and is presented to each newly elected pontiff. The destruction of the ring is a longstanding tradition to prevent its misuse. Although the act of kissing the papal ring, a gesture of respect, has become less common in recent years, the destruction of the ring continues to be an important ritual signifying the transition of papal leadership.
First Piper 