Mon Apr 21 20:31:44 UTC 2025: ## Pope Francis, the ‘People’s Pope’, Dies at 88
VATICAN CITY – Pope Francis, the first Latin American pontiff and widely beloved as the “people’s pope,” passed away at the Vatican today at the age of 88. His death marks the end of an era for the 1.4 billion-strong Roman Catholic Church.
Known for his outspoken advocacy for the poor, his pronouncements on peace, poverty, and climate change resonated deeply across the globe, particularly in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. However, his progressive efforts to reform the traditionally conservative institution faced significant internal resistance.
The legacy of Pope Francis and the future direction of the Catholic Church are now the subject of intense speculation. Reactions are pouring in from religious leaders worldwide, including Reverend Munther Isaac, a Palestinian pastor; Father James Oyet Latansio, general secretary of the South Sudan Council of Churches; and Father Francis Lucas, executive director of the Catholic Media Network. Their insights will be crucial in understanding the impact of Pope Francis’ papacy and the challenges facing his successor. The process of electing a new pope is expected to begin shortly.
First Piper 