Pope Francis Dead at 88, Vatican Confirms - Read Statement
Pope Francis has died at 88.
The head of the Catholic Church, whose real name was Jorge Mario Bergoglio, died on Monday (April 21), the Vatican confirmed in a statement.
The pope’s death comes after his recent battle with pneumonia in both lungs. He was discharged from a Rome hospital just weeks ago and returned to the Vatican, where he made a surprise public appearance on April 6.
Pope Francis‘ death was confirmed in a statement by the Vatican camerlengo, Cardinal Kevin Farrell.
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“Dear brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis,” a statement read. “At 7:35 this morning the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father. His whole 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 favour 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 Triune God.”
The below photo appears to be the final photo released of Pope Francis, from his meeting with King Charles and Queen Camilla on April 9.