Dhaka, April 21 -- Pope Francis, the first pope from Latin America whose warmth, humility, and tireless advocacy for the marginalized inspired millions - even as his critiques of capitalism and bold stance on climate change drew criticism from conservatives - died on Monday at the age of 88.

35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of his Church," announced Cardinal Kevin Ferrell, the Vatican's camerlengo.

Church bells rang out across Rome as the city mourned the passing of a transformative spiritual leader.

Francis had endured chronic lung issues for much of his life, having lost part of one lung as a young man. On February 14, 2025, ...