Pope Francis passed away on Monday at the age of 88, just a day after his eagerly anticipated appearance at Saint Peter’s Square on Easter Sunday, according to a statement from 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.”
Francis passed away just a day after lifting the spirits of worshippers at the Vatican with a balcony appearance at Saint Peter’s Basilica on Easter Sunday, despite still recovering from a serious illness.
Earlier this year, he had two close brushes with death due to pneumonia and spent 38 days hospitalized before being discharged on March 23.
On Sunday, he greeted the crowd at Saint Peter’s Square with a warm “Happy Easter” and, during his traditional “Urbi et Orbi” blessing, he emphasized the importance of freedom of thought and tolerance.
Join Informant Online WhatsApp Channel With Link Below: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaihFajBadmT29ufud2
