World Mourns Pope Francis; Catholic Church Prepares for Transition

VATICAN CITY - The world is in mourning following the death of Pope Francis on Monday at the age of 88. Tributes are pouring in from religious leaders, political figures, and ordinary citizens across the globe, recognizing his contributions to the Catholic Church and his advocacy for social justice.

Pope Francis, known for his humility and progressive views, served as the leader of the Catholic Church for over a decade. He championed the cause of the poor, spoke out against inequality, and sought to modernize the Church's approach to various social issues. His papacy was marked by efforts to promote interfaith dialogue and address the challenges of climate change.

With Pope Francis's passing, the Vatican is now preparing for the complex process of selecting his successor. Cardinals from around the world will gather in Rome to participate in a conclave, where they will cast ballots until a new pope is elected. This process, steeped in tradition and secrecy, is expected to draw intense scrutiny from the global community. The next pope will face the challenge of leading the Church through a period of significant change and addressing the evolving needs of its followers.