Pope Francis dies at 88
His death came just a day after he made a much-anticipated appearance at Saint Peter's Square during Easter Sunday celebrations.
KATHMANDU: Pope Francis passed away on Monday at the age of 88, the Vatican announced in a statement.
His death came just a day after he made a much-anticipated appearance at Saint Peter’s Square during Easter Sunday celebrations.
“Dearest brothers and sisters, it is with deep sorrow that I must announce the death of our Holy Father, Francis,” Cardinal Kevin Farrell stated in an official message shared via the Vatican’s 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 the service of the Lord and His Church.”
The Pope’s death follows his recent recovery from a serious illness. Despite ongoing health challenges, he appeared on the balcony of Saint Peter’s Basilica on Easter Sunday, delighting thousands of faithful with a brief address and his traditional Urbi et Orbi (“To the City and the World”) blessing. During the benediction, he called for freedom of thought and greater tolerance across the world.
Earlier this year, Pope Francis had two life-threatening encounters with pneumonia, spending 38 days in the hospital before being discharged on March 23.
