Pope Francis, the first Latin American Pope and spiritual leader of the Roman Catholic Church, has died at the age of 88. He passed away early in the morning on Easter Monday at 7:35am local time. Just a day earlier, he had appeared in St. Peter’s Square to greet thousands of people with a “Happy Easter” message.
He had recently been in the hospital for several weeks due to an infection, but was discharged last month. His death has deeply saddened people around the world. Leaders from many countries praised his kindness, humility, and warm smile. King Charles said Pope Francis touched the hearts of millions during his life.
With his passing, the process to choose the next pope will now begin. Catholic cardinals from around the world will gather in the Vatican to elect a new spiritual leader.