Pope Francis passed away on Monday at the age of 88, just one day after making a highly anticipated appearance at Saint Peter’s Square for Easter Sunday, as announced by the Vatican.
“Dearest brothers and sisters, it is with deep sorrow that I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis,” said Cardinal Kevin Farrell in the statement published by the Vatican on its Telegram channel.
“This morning at 7:35 am (0535 GMT), the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father.
“His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and His church.”
His death occurred a day after he entertained the assembled worshippers at the Vatican with his presence on the balcony of Saint Peter’s Basilica, even while recovering from a serious illness.
Earlier this year, Francis faced life-threatening situations twice due to pneumonia. He was hospitalised for 38 days before being discharged on March 23.
During his Easter Sunday greeting to the crowds in Saint Peter’s Square, he extended wishes for a “Happy Easter” while waving, and in his customary “Urbi et Orbi” (“To the City and the World”) blessing, he advocated for freedom of thought and tolerance.
