Pope Francis has died at 88 after 12 years as the spiritual leader of the Roman Catholic Church, initiating the process of electing a new Pope. His death marks a significant moment for the 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide, as the Pope is seen as a direct successor to St. Peter. Pope Francis opted for a simpler funeral and burial in St. Mary Major Basilica, breaking from tradition. The election of the new Pope will be conducted by the College of Cardinals in secrecy, with the outcome signaled by smoke from the Sistine Chapel.