Pope Francis, the first Latin American leader of the Roman Catholic Church, passed away at the age of 88 following complications from double pneumonia. Just days prior, he made a public appearance on Easter Sunday in St. Peter’s Square, showcasing his enduring connection to the faithful.
A figure celebrated for his humanitarian efforts, Francis consistently advocated for global peace and supported marginalized communities. He drew widespread praise for his calls to end hostilities in Gaza, reflecting his deeply empathetic leadership. Since becoming pope in 2013, he had worked to foster love, tolerance, and harmony between diverse faiths.
Known for his modest lifestyle, Francis chose to live in a communal setting instead of the luxurious papal apartments, a hallmark of his humility. His papacy saw him address critical internal challenges, including the child abuse scandal, while engaging in tireless efforts to bridge gaps and promote interfaith dialogue. Despite facing criticism from both progressives and conservatives, he remained a unifying figure, reshaping the church’s image as a symbol of compassion and hope.
