Pope Francis, who put reforms for an inclusive Catholic Church and love for humanity at the heart of his work, died Monday at 88, the Vatican announced.
As head of the Catholic Church, the Bishop of Rome was a passionate advocate for social justice, human dignity and stood for the disenfranchised communities. He was the first Latin American Pope and the first non-European head of the Vatican since the Middle Ages.
“Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow, I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis,” Cardinal Kevin Farrel, who oversees the Pope’s affairs, aid in a statement on Vatican News. “At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father.”
Pope’s death follows weeks of his hospital stay during which he fought the pneumonia and other health issues.
Just a day before, on Easter Sunday Francis greeted thousands in St. Peter’s Square after Easter Mass.
Pope Francis was know for his simplicity and humility and avoided pomp and privilege that comes with papal leadership.
He loved being among the people and during his 12 years as head of the Catholic Church he expressed his support on some of the contentious issues of the day including his support for migrants, marginalized, victims of conflicts and persecuted communities.
For Easter Sunday appearance, he put behind his recent health challenges and sat in a raised chair in a vehicle as thousands of people cheered him in the Vatican.
Paying tribute to Pope Francis’s lifelong commitment and advocacy for justice and fair play, Farell said, “His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of His Church.”
“He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage and universal love, especially in favor of the poorest and most marginalized. 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.”
Leaders and people around the world remembered Pope Francis’ services and work for the cause of humanity and justice.
Pope Francis was born on December 17, 1936 and raised in Buenos Aires, Argentina. He became head of the Catholic Church and sovereign of the Vatican City March 13, 2013.
