Pope Francis, spiritual leader to 1.3 billion Catholics worldwide, has died today at age 88, succumbing to a prolonged lung ailment.
His passing marks the end of a transformative papacy defined by humility, interfaith dialogue, and a focus on social justice.
The Vatican confirmed the news this afternoon, revealing the Pope passed peacefully in his Vatican residence after receiving medical care for several weeks. Details regarding the specific nature of his lung condition remain undisclosed. Elected in 2013, the Argentinian-born Pope Francis, the first from the Americas, became a beacon of hope for many with his emphasis on pastoral care and outreach to marginalized communities.
He tirelessly championed environmental protection, advocated for migrants and refugees, and made significant strides in ecumenical relations.
His papacy was also marked by efforts to address internal Church challenges, including financial transparency and accountability for clerical abuse.
The Vatican is expected to announce funeral arrangements shortly.
Global leaders are already expressing condolences, recognizing Pope Francis’s profound impact on the world stage.
The College of Cardinals will now convene to elect his successor, a process shrouded in centuries-old tradition, according to various media outlets.