WORLD MOURNS POPE WHO DIES AT 88

The Pope is the bishop of Rome and the leader of the worldwide Catholic Church. He is considered the spiritual successor to Saint Peter, one of Jesus Christ’s apostles and the first bishop of Rome. The Pope is also the head of the Vatican City State, which is an independent city-state enclaved within Rome. Current Pope: As of now, the Pope is Pope Francis, who became pope in March 2013. He is the first pope from the Americas (Argentina) and the first Jesuit pope. Role: The Pope is the highest authority in the Catholic Church. His duties include leading religious services, guiding Church doctrine, appointing bishops, and acting as a moral and spiritual guide for Catholics worldwide. Election: Popes are elected by the College of Cardinals in a secret conclave held in the Sistine Chapel after the previous pope dies or resigns. Influence: The Pope is an influential global figure, often involved in discussions on peace, human rights, climate change, and interfaith dialogue. Want info on a specific pope, like Pope Francis or a historical one? Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, served as the 266th pope of the Catholic Church from March 13, 2013, until his death on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. He was the first Jesuit pope, the first from the Americas, and the first non- Early Life and Rise in the Church Before entering the priesthood, Bergoglio worked as a janitor and chemical technician. He joined the Jesuit order in 1958 and was ordained a priest in 1969. He became Archbishop of Buenos Aires in 1998 and was elevated to cardinal by Pope John Paul II in 2001 .​

pope Francis in Nairobi Kenya Papacy Highlights Elected following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI, Pope Francis chose his papal name in honor of Saint Francis of Assisi, reflecting his commitment to humility and care for the poor. His papacy was marked by progressive stances, including:​ Social Justice: Advocated for the marginalized, including migrants and the LGBTQ+ community. Environmental Advocacy: Issued the encyclical Laudato Si’, calling for global action on climate change. Church Reforms: Implemented financial and bureaucratic reforms within the Vatican. Inclusivity: Appointed the first African American cardinal from the U.S. and supported increased roles for women in the Church .​ Despite his progressive approach, he faced criticism from conservative factions within the Church, particularly regarding his openness to same-sex blessings and his handling of clerical sexual abuse cases .​ Death and Legacy Pope Francis passed away on April 21, 2025, due to a stroke and irreversible heart failure . His death marked the end of a transformative era for the Catholic Church, characterized by efforts to modernize and promote compassion and inclusivity. A conclave will be convened to elect his successor.​