VATICAN CITY — Pope Francis, the 266th leader of the Roman Catholic Church and the first Latin American and Jesuit pope in history, has died at the age of 88. His death follows complications from a cerebral stroke, bringing an end to a 12-year papacy defined by humility, reform, and a renewed focus on social justice and unity.

The passing of Pope Francis marks a turning point for the Catholic Church and its 1.3 billion followers worldwide. His legacy is one of compassion, simplicity, and bold leadership that redefined the role of the papacy in the modern world.

Pope Francis: A Break from Tradition

Elected in 2013, Pope Francis quickly became a transformative figure in global religious leadership. As the first pope from South America and the first non-European pontiff in over 1,200 years, he brought a fresh perspective to the Vatican. Known for rejecting extravagance, Pope Francis chose a humble residence over the traditional papal palace and traveled in modest vehicles.

His leadership focused on human dignity, outreach to the poor, and modern challenges such as climate change, economic inequality, and immigration. His famous call for a “Church that is poor and for the poor” resonated worldwide.

A Champion for Change and Unity

During his papacy, Pope Francis pushed for internal reforms within the Church, targeting financial mismanagement and promoting greater transparency in the Vatican’s operations. He advocated for a more inclusive Church, offering compassion rather than condemnation and welcoming open dialogue on controversial issues.

He consistently stood with the marginalized, visiting refugees, prisoners, and disaster-stricken regions. His commitment to environmental protection, highlighted in his influential encyclical on climate change, positioned him as a moral leader on the global stage.

Final Moments and Burial Plans

After suffering a stroke, Pope Francis passed away peacefully in Vatican City. Following his request for a simple farewell, he will be laid to rest at the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome, reflecting his lifetime dedication to humility and devotion.