Pope Francis visited a record 10 African countries throughout his pontificate, often venturing to areas ravaged by war, poverty or natural disaster.

Africa is home to some of the fastest-growing Catholic populations in the world and has over 250 million Catholics.

The death of Pope Francis this month at the age of 88 set off grief and mourning around the world — along with a complex process to find a successor. Francis’ successor will be selected at a conclave that will begin May 7,