Pope Francis has passed away at the age of 88.
The news of his passing was confirmed in a statement released by Cardinal Kevin Farrell on behalf of the Vatican.
“Dearest brothers and sisters, it is with profound sorrow that I announce the passing of our Holy Father, Francis. At 7:35 a.m. this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father. His entire life was devoted to the service of God and the Church.
He exemplified the values of the Gospel—faithfulness, courage, and boundless love—especially toward the poor and marginalized.
With deep gratitude for his witness as a true follower of Jesus Christ, we entrust the soul of Pope Francis to the boundless mercy of the Triune God.”
Pope Francis, who served as the head of the Catholic Church and Bishop of Rome, assumed the papacy in 2013 following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI.
Prior to his death, the Pope had been battling pneumonia and bronchitis. After spending 38 days in the hospital, he was discharged on March 23.
May his gentle soul rest in peace. Amen.
