Pope Francis Dies, Church Prepares for Conclave

Pope Francis, the first Latin American pontiff, died at age 88 on Easter Monday following a 12-year papacy marked by reform, humility, and advocacy for marginalized groups. His leadership emphasized environmental stewardship and inclusion of gay and lesbian Catholics, generating both praise and controversy within the Church. With his death, longstanding Vatican rituals have come into focus as preparations for the secretive papal conclave to elect his successor begin. Interest in prophecies, including those of Nostradamus and the 'Prophecy of the Popes,' has resurfaced, with some interpreting them as predicting recent events and speculating on the Church's future. The legacy of Francis and portrayals in popular films continue to shape public perceptions. The Catholic world now watches closely as the Vatican prepares for this pivotal transition.