Roman Catholics and other religious faithful woke up to the news of Pope Francis’ death on Easter Monday.
Pope Francis was seen at St Peter’s Square on Easter Sunday greeting crowds, but on Monday the Vatican announced that he has died a the age of 88.
He had a 38 days stay in hospital between February and March this year, battling with pneumonia and acute lungs infection.
“Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis,” said a Vatican statement signed by Cardinal Kevin Farrell.
“At 7.35am this morning, 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 favour of the poorest and most marginalised.
“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.”
Pope France became the Bishop of Rome and head of the Catholic Church in 2013 after his predecessor Pope Benedict XVI resigned.
The process for choosing a new pope – conclave – generally takes place between 15 and 20 days after the death of a pontiff.
