By Gloria Nosa
The Vatican has announced the death of Pope Francis at the age of 88, marking the end of a historic and transformative papacy that spanned more than a decade.
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, passed away peacefully in the Vatican, surrounded by close aides and members of the clergy. The cause of death has not been officially disclosed, though the pontiff had faced several health challenges in recent years.
Elected in 2013 as the first pope from the Americas and the first Jesuit to hold the office, Pope Francis brought a unique voice to the Catholic Church, championing humility, social justice, and dialogue over division. His papacy was defined by efforts to modernize the Church, address systemic issues, and bridge gaps between faith and contemporary global issues.
He was widely admired for his compassion toward the poor and marginalized, his advocacy for environmental stewardship, and his calls for peace in troubled regions around the world. Pope Francis also played a pivotal role in interfaith relations and was seen as a symbol of moral leadership on the global stage.
Tributes have begun pouring in from religious leaders, world figures, and millions of Catholics around the globe who mourn the loss of a deeply influential spiritual leader.
The Vatican has confirmed that preparations for a state funeral are underway, with further details to be announced in the coming days.
As the Church begins a period of mourning and reflection, attention will soon turn to the College of Cardinals, who will convene in a conclave to elect the next pope.
