Pope Francis, an active reformer who angered traditionalists yet sparked enormous Catholic devotion, passed away on Monday at the age of 88.
After 38 days of treatment for double pneumonia in Rome’s Gemelli hospital, the Argentine pope, who has presided over the Catholic Church since March 2013, appeared to be on the mend and left the facility on March 23.
His death occurred barely one day after he appeared on the balcony of Saint Peter’s Basilica on Easter Sunday, seeming weak and charming the masses of believers at 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,” said the statement, released shortly before 10:00 am.
His passing initiates centuries-old customs that will ultimately lead to a conclave of cardinals selecting a successor.
Meanwhile, the camerlengo, a senior cardinal, Kevin Farrell, who was born in Dublin, would be in charge of managing the day-to-day operations of the small Vatican City state.
On Monday, the normally lively Saint Peter’s Square at the Vatican seemed to quiet down as bells sounded out.
“He lived this Easter and then he went,” Cesarina Cireddu from Sardinia said with tears in her eyes. “He’s actually returned to the Lord — and godspeed.”
While silent groups of individuals leaned against a barricade to pray, tour groups kept moving through the expansive plaza.
“We have lost our spiritual father,” stated 31-year-old Venezuelan Riccardo Vielma, who is pursuing a priesthood degree.
“This is the moment for all of humanity to unite and pray for him.”
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