Pope Francis, the leader of the Catholic Church, has died at the age of 88. Vatican officials announced his death on Monday.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Vatican camerlengo, delivered the news. As camerlengo, Farrell is now responsible for managing the Church's affairs until a new Pope is chosen.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis made history as the first Jesuit and the first Latin American to become Pope. He was elected in 2013 after Pope Benedict XVI resigned. He became known for focusing on humility, helping those in need, and fairness.
During his time as Pope, Francis made changes within the Vatican to improve financial transparency and address clerical abuse issues. He also strongly supported environmental protection, urging global action on climate change through his encyclical Laudato Si'.
