Pope Francis, 88, passed away on Easter Monday at the Vatican, after a long hospital stay for pneumonia. The Argentinian pontiff, the first Latin American pope, was known for his advocacy for the poor and migrants, and his efforts to reform the Catholic Church. His death, announced with deep sorrow, will initiate the process of electing a new pope. Tributes poured in from world leaders, praising his compassion and commitment to social justice. Francis' papacy, marked by both reform and resistance from conservative factions, leaves a lasting impact on the Catholic Church.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.