On Saturday, April 26, 2025 the funeral for Pope Francis was held. In accordance with Catholic beliefs, the Pope went to heaven once he died. It’s a belief held by probably billions around the world, as what really happens after death is a question that someone asks at some time during their lives. But did Pope Francis go to heaven? Is that what the Bible says?
What really happens at death? Where can we go for trustworthy answers? Only the Creator of life can reveal life’s purpose and the state of the dead. By looking into the Bible for answers, we can learn about both life and death.
Rick Shabi (1954-2025) was ordained an elder in 2000, and relocated to northern Florida in 2004. He attended Ambassador College and graduated from Indiana University with a Bachelor of Science in Business, with a major in Accounting. After enjoying a rewarding career in corporate and local hospital finance and administration, he became a pastor in January 2011, at which time he and his wife Deborah served in the Orlando and Jacksonville, Florida, churches. Rick served as the Treasurer for the United Church of God from 2013–2022, and was President from May 2022 to April 2025.