Introduction Pope Francis, the beloved spiritual leader of over a billion Catholics, passed away peacefully on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. His death marks the end of a remarkable papacy that emphasized humility, inclusion, and a bold vision for a modern Catholic Church. A Life of Service Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis became the first Jesuit and the first Latin American pope in history. Since his election in March 2013, he devoted his life to bridging gaps between faith and society—focusing on the poor, the environment, and unity among religions. His Final Days Pope Francis had been battling health issues in recent months, including complications from pneumonia. Despite this, he appeared at his final public event on Easter Sunday, giving his traditional “Urbi et Orbi” blessing to thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square. His quiet passing in the Vatican brought a wave of mourning and reflection across the world. Global Tributes ...