In the Pope’s last post on social media, made hours before his death this morning, he reminded people in a heartwarming message that we are not made for death – but for life.
The beloved pontiff, 88, suffered health issues for several months after being admitted to the Gemelli hospital in Rome for treatment for bronchitis on February 14, which developed into double pneumonia. Since then the Vatican has released regular updates on his health and today’s sad announcement of his death earlier came hours after the Pope blessed Easter crowds at St Paul’s Basilica on Sunday from the Popemobile.
Follow our live blog for the latest on the Pope’s sad passing.
Before visiting St Paul’s Basilica for the final time on Sunday, the Pope posted on X. He said in his last message: “Christ is risen! These words capture the entire meaning of our existence, for we were not made for death but for life.”
He earlier said on Sunday in his Easter message: “I would like us to renew our hope peace is possible! From the Holy Sepulchre, the Church of the Resurrection, where this year Easter is being celebrated by Catholics and Orthodox on the same day, may the light of peace radiate throughout the Holy Land and the entire world.
“In the passion and death of Jesus, God has taken upon Himself all the evil in this world and in His infinite mercy has defeated it. He has uprooted the diabolical pride that poisons the human heart and wreaks violence and corruption on every side.
“Sisters, brothers, in the wonder of our Easter faith, carrying in our hearts every expectation of peace and liberation, we can say: with You, O Lord, everything is new. With You, everything begins again.”
Cardinal Kevin Ferrell, the Vatican camerlengo, announced the sad news the Pope passed away at around 7.30am. He said: “said: “Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. At 7.35am, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father.
“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 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 One and Triune God.”
On March 13, 2013, he became pope at the age of 76, succeeding Pope Benedict XVI, the first pope in 600 years to resign from office. In his February 2013 announcement, Pope Benedict, who was 85, said the modern world was changing so quickly and profoundly that someone of his age and era was “no longer suited” to the papacy.
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