Pope Francis dies at 88

Summary

• Pope Francis has passed away this morning. He was 88.

• The first Latin American leader of the Roman Catholic Church was suffering from lung ailments for several months.

Pope Francis has passed away today at the age of 88, the Holy See announced.

Cardinal Kevin Ferrell was quoted in various reports as saying that the first Latin American leader of the Roman Catholic Church died at the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta this morning.

"Dear brothers and sisters, it is with profound sadness I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis," Farrell announced on the Vatican's TV channel.

"At 7.35am (Italian time), the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of his church,” he said.

Double pneumonia diagnosis

According to reports, Francis had suffered various ailments in his 12-year papacy.

Farrell said the pope was admitted to the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital on Feb 14, after suffering from a bout of bronchitis for several days.

Francis’ health gradually worsened, with doctors diagnosing a double pneumonia on Feb 18.

He reportedly spent 38 days in the hospital before returning to his Vatican residence to continue his recovery.

Francis’ death comes a day after he appeared in St Peter's Square to wish "Happy Easter" to thousands of worshippers.

Farrell said the pope had taught followers to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage, and universal love, especially in favour of the poorest and most marginalised.

“With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite merciful love of the One and Triune God," he added.

According to Reuters, Jorge Mario Bergoglio was elected pope on March 13, 2013, surprising many church watchers who had seen the Argentine cleric, known for his concern for the poor, as an outsider.

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