Pope Francis has passed on at the age of 88, the Vatican announced on Monday. His death came just one day after he made a much-anticipated appearance at Saint Peter’s Square during Easter Sunday celebrations, despite recovering from a serious illness.
The Vatican says he passed away peacefully at his residence in Casa Santa Marta.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell paid tribute, saying, “His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and His Church.”
The Pope, who had been battling pneumonia earlier in the year, had a close brush with death on two occasions. He was hospitalised for 38 days and was only discharged on March 23.
Despite his frail health, he appeared on the balcony of Saint Peter’s Basilica on Easter Sunday to wave at the faithful, wishing them a “Happy Easter” and delivering his traditional “Urbi et Orbi” blessing, calling for peace, freedom of thought, and tolerance across the world.
His final public appearance was received with joy by thousands who had gathered in the Square, making his death just a day later even more heartbreaking for many around the world.
Pope Francis was deeply admired across nations, including Nigeria, where he was known for his messages of unity, humility, and justice.
