Pope Francis Passes Away at 88

The Vatican announced the death of Pope Francis on Monday, aged 88, following a prolonged illness.

This comes a day after the pontiff made a surprise appearance at Saint Peter’s Square on Easter Sunday.

Cardinal Kevin Farrell released a statement on the Vatican’s Telegram channel, saying: “Dearest brothers and sisters, it is with deep sorrow that I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. 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.”

The Pope’s passing follows a recent bout of severe illness, including two near-death experiences earlier this year due to pneumonia.

He spent 38 days in the hospital before being discharged on March 23.

On Easter Sunday, Pope Francis appeared on the balcony of Saint Peter’s Basilica, greeting the crowd with a “Happy Easter” and delivering his traditional “Urbi et Orbi” (“To the City and the World”) benediction. During the address, he advocated for freedom of thought and tolerance.