The Vatican released a statement early this morning that Pope Francis had passed away. The native Argentinean had been suffering from respiratory problems since February, when he was admitted to the hospital with bilateral pneumonia. Francis was the 266th pope and leader of the Catholic Church.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell announced the pontiff’s death, saying, “Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis.” He continued:
“At 7:35 this morning (local time), the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and 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," Farrell concluded.
Firsts and Reforms
Pope Francis was the very first Jesuit to become pope, and the first non-European Bishop of Rome since Syrian-born Gregory III died in 741. His time in the Vatican has been seen by many as contentious, as he pushed for reforms, and yet his office remained respected by world leaders.
Italian Prime Minister Georgia Meloni lamented, "I had the privilege of enjoying his friendship.” She said, "he asked the world, once again, for the courage to change direction, to follow a path that ‘does not destroy, but cultivates, repairs, protects.’”
"His teaching and his legacy will not be lost. We greet the Holy Father with hearts full of sadness, but we know that he is now in the peace of the Lord," she said in an official statement.
His last public appearance was yesterday, Easter Sunday, where he greeted crowds and wished them a “Happy Easter.” His address was read aloud by an aide. “There can be no peace without freedom of religion, freedom of thought, freedom of expression," the message said. The aide continued:
"What a great thirst for death, for killing we see in the many conflicts raging in different parts of the world.
"I express my closeness to the sufferings... for all the Israeli people and the Palestinian people… Call a ceasefire, release the hostages and come to the aid of a starving people that aspires to a future of peace."
Pope Francis will be laid to rest at the Basilica of St Mary Major.
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