Pope Francis, a dynamic reformer who garnered significant devotion from Catholics while also provoking traditionalists, passed away on Monday at the age of 88.
The Argentine pontiff, who had led the Catholic Church since March 2013, underwent treatment for double pneumonia for 38 days at Rome’s Gemelli hospital before appearing to recover and being discharged on March 23.
His passing occurred just one day after he brought joy to the crowds of worshippers at the Vatican during Easter Sunday with an appearance on the balcony of Saint Peter’s Basilica.
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“Dear brothers and sisters, it is with profound sadness that I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis,” stated Cardinal Kevin Farrell in a message released 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 devoted to serving the Lord and His church.”
His death initiates long-standing traditions that will lead to a conclave of cardinals convening to select a successor.
In the interim, the daily operations of the small Vatican City state will be overseen by the camerlengo, a senior cardinal, currently Kevin Farrell, who hails from Dublin.