DE Online Desk :
VATICAN CITY – Pope Francis has died at the age of 88, the Vatican announced on Monday, just one day after making a surprise appearance at Saint Peter’s Square during Easter Sunday celebrations.
In an official statement shared via the Vatican’s Telegram channel, Cardinal Kevin Farrell said, “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.”
The statement paid tribute to the late pontiff’s life of unwavering devotion, stating: “His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and His Church.”
Pope Francis’s passing comes shortly after he had shown signs of recovery from a serious illness.
Just a day before his death, he greeted tens of thousands of worshippers from the balcony of Saint Peter’s Basilica.
During the traditional “Urbi et Orbi” blessing, he extended Easter wishes and called for freedom of thought and greater tolerance around the world.
Earlier this year, the Pope had battled pneumonia and faced two near-death experiences, prompting a 38-day hospital stay before his release on March 23. His appearance on Easter Sunday had sparked renewed hope among the faithful.
Pope Francis was the first pontiff from Latin America and the first Jesuit to hold the papacy.
His leadership was marked by efforts to reform the Catholic Church, champion the rights of the marginalized, and promote dialogue among religions.Further details regarding funeral arrangements and succession protocols are expected from the Vatican in the coming days.