Pope Francis, who made history as the first pontiff from Latin America, died Monday at age 88.
The beloved pope suffered a string of health challenges earlier this year that landed him in the hospital for more than a month. However, he made a surprise appearance Sunday in the popemobile at the end of an Easter Mass at the Vatican, and met with Vice President JD Vance.
Here’s what to know about the pontiff’s death, and what comes next as the Catholic Church selects a new leader.
The obituary: Pope Francis, Latin America’s first pontiff who ministered with charm and humility, dies at 88
Bay Area remembers: Pope Francis’ progressive legacy remembered in Bay Area for LGBTQ, immigration, environmental stands
A timeline: From Buenos Aires to Rome: Key dates in the life of Pope Francis
Complex stances: Francis changed church policy on the death penalty and nuclear weapons but upheld it on abortion
Friends and foes: Pope Francis reached out to migrants and the LGBTQ+ community, but also drew unusual opposition
Important details: What to know about the death of Pope Francis
Rites and rituals: The rites and rituals following the death of a pope, his funeral and burial, explained
Who’s next?: Which cardinals are seen as contenders to be the next pope?
Before the white smoke: What happens next after Pope Francis’ death? How the Catholic Church will pick a successor
His last appearance: Francis’ appearance at the Vatican was among the Easter celebrations around the world
Final visitors: JD Vance was one of the last leaders to meet with Pope Francis
