Pope Francis Dies at Age 88

April 21, 2025

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Pope Francis, the leader of the Catholic Church, has died at the age of 88, the Vatican confirmed. His death comes just one day after he made a public appearance in Vatican City. The Pope had been dealing with health problems in recent weeks.

Pope Francis served as the spiritual leader for more than a billion Catholics around the world. Known for his humble style and efforts to bring people together, he became Pope in 2013 and was the first ever from South America.

Following his death, the Catholic Church will enter a period of mourning. Then, all cardinals under the age of 80 will gather in Vatican City to choose the next pope. This special meeting is called a conclave and usually takes about two to three weeks.

Until a new pope is elected, the Church will be guided by senior officials. Pope Francis leaves behind a legacy of kindness, care for the poor, and a focus on protecting the planet.

His passing marks the end of a significant chapter in the Church’s history.

Article written by Shem Banbury - Kiwi Kids News Editor

This article was written using AI as an assistive tool for research and writing.

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Recall Questions

Thinking questions

Digital Thinking

Learning Options

Recall Questions

Thinking questions

Digital Thinking

Mia wheeled her bike into the garage and leaned it carefully against the wall. She crouched beside the back wheel, frowned, and spun it with one finger. The chain had slipped off again. Mia sighed, wiped her hands on her shorts, and reached for the old rag hanging near the bench. ‘If I can fix this before Mum gets home,’ she muttered, ‘I can still make it to practice.’

What can you infer Mia is trying to do?

She is planning to wash the bike before dinner. She is trying to fix the bike in time to go to practice. She is trying to hide the bike before her mother notices it. She is checking whether the bike should be sold.