World Leaders Honor Pope Francis Following His Death at 88

Pope Francis, the first Latin American pontiff and leader of the Roman Catholic Church, has died at age 88 after a papacy marked by a strong emphasis on peace, compassion, and social justice. His legacy includes promoting interfaith dialogue, championing the marginalized, and addressing environmental issues, while taking more liberal stances on some social topics, which drew both praise and criticism. World leaders, religious figures, and political officials have paid tribute, highlighting his humility, humanity, and commitment to service, with many noting the inspiration he provided through both words and actions. Reactions to his passing have come from across the globe, including heartfelt messages from the US, UK, India, and the Czech Republic, and even public events in Italy have been postponed in his honor. Many tributes also recognized Pope Francis's efforts to bridge divides among Christian denominations and his lasting impact on the church's approach to leadership and outreach. His death leaves the global Catholic community mourning and awaiting the selection of a new leader.