World Mourns Pope Francis Amid Global Reflections

Pope Francis, who served as pontiff for 12 years and was known for his compassion and focus on the marginalized, has died at age 88. His passing prompted reflections on his legacy from Catholics worldwide, highlighting his role as 'the world’s parish priest' and his impact on diverse communities, including the poor, LGBTQ Catholics, and Spanish speakers. The Vatican confirmed his death was caused by a stroke followed by a coma and cardiocirculatory collapse, after a period of serious health issues. World leaders, including former President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump, have confirmed their attendance at his funeral in Rome, underscoring Francis’s global influence. The pontificate is remembered for Francis’s remarkable personal outreach and his efforts to model hope, faith, and inclusivity in turbulent times. His death marks the end of a progressive and, at times, divisive era for the Catholic Church.