Christian religious leader Pope Francis has passed away at the age of 88 today in Vatican City, according to the BBC. The Vatican City announced his death through an official statement.
Rev. Uddhav Prasad Chimoriya, President of the “National Christian Federation Nepal,” expressed his sorrow over the death of Pope Francis, stating that the world has lost a great spiritual leader—not only for Christians worldwide but also for all humanity who prayed for peace and unity under his guidance.
“Dear brothers and sisters, it is with deep sorrow that I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis,” said Cardinal Kevin Farrell in a statement published via the Vatican’s Telegram channel. “At 7:35 this morning (0535 GMT), the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the Father’s house. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and His Church.”
According to the statement, after suffering from a serious illness, Pope Francis had been resting but appeared on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica on Sunday, bringing joy to the crowd of devotees in Vatican City—only to pass away the very next day.
Earlier this year, Pope Francis came close to death twice due to pneumonia. Before being discharged on March 23, he had spent 38 days in the hospital.
On Sunday, he waved to the crowd in St. Peter’s Square and wished them a “Happy Easter.” He also delivered his traditional “Urbi et Orbi” (To the City and the World) blessing, calling for freedom of thought and tolerance.
