Pope Francis Dies at 88, Catholic World Enters Mourning and Prepares for Next Conclave

The global Catholic community is mourning the death of Pope Francis, who passes away at the age of 88 following recent health complications. His passing marks the end of a transformative era in Vatican leadership and initiates the formal process to elect his successor.

The Vatican confirms that Pope Francis dies just hours after making a surprise appearance on Easter Sunday, where he offered a brief public blessing from the balcony at St. Peter’s Basilica and met with U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance. Though visibly frail, the. . .