Pope Francis Dies, Cardinals Prepare for Conclave

Pope Francis, the spiritual leader of nearly 1.5 billion Catholics, has died at age 88, prompting a period of global mourning and the beginning of the process to select his successor. The College of Cardinals will soon convene in a conclave to elect the next pope, with attention focused on a diverse slate of contenders from across the world. Among the leading candidates are prominent Italian cardinals such as Pietro Parolin and Matteo Maria Zuppi, as well as African cardinals Peter Turkson and Robert Sarah, whose possible election would mark a historic shift for the Church. The inclusion of African candidates reflects the continent's rapidly growing Catholic population and the Church's shifting global demographics. Locally and worldwide, Catholics are reflecting on Francis’s legacy of humility, social engagement, and progressive reforms, even as internal divisions remain. This transitional moment is seen as pivotal for the future direction of the Catholic Church, both spiritually and politically.