Vatican City – The Vatican has announced the passing of Pope Francis, who died peacefully on Monday morning at the age of 88, just one day after making a much-anticipated appearance at Saint Peter’s Square during Easter Sunday celebrations.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell delivered the somber news in a statement released via the Vatican’s official Telegram channel.
“Dearest brothers and sisters, it is with deep sorrow that I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis,” he said. “This morning at 7:35 a.m. (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.”
Despite ongoing health struggles, Pope Francis appeared on the balcony of Saint Peter’s Basilica on Easter Sunday to greet worshippers. He offered his traditional Urbi et Orbi (“To the City and the World”) benediction, calling for global tolerance, freedom of thought, and peace.
The Pope had narrowly escaped death twice earlier this year after suffering from pneumonia. He spent 38 days in hospital before being discharged on March 23.
His final public appearance on Easter Sunday was seen as a moment of hope for millions of Catholics worldwide, as he waved to the crowd and wished them a “Happy Easter.”
Pope Francis will be remembered for his humility, progressive vision, and unwavering commitment to social justice, dialogue, and the marginalized.
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