Pope Francis has passed away on Easter Monday. He had been battling ailing health since his admission to the hospital in February.
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The Vatican released a statement about the passing of Pope Francis this Monday. "Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow, I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father."
Pope Francis had struggled with lung infections since he was a child. He lost a portion of his lungs to pleurisy, and as a result often had ill health in the winter months. This year, he was hospitalized, and more concern than usual was raised.
However, despite a long time in the hospital, he did emerge during Lent and returned briefly to his duties. However, this year his lung infection was too difficult for the 88-year-old pope to fight off.
Heartfelt Messages For The Passing Of Pope Francis
Since his death, people around the world have shared their kind words about Pope Francis. He had been in office since 2013 and had a profound effect on many people's lives. The Vatican shared its own statement in remembrance of the late pope.
"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 favor 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."
Around the world, the pope will be remembered and mourned. His many years as the Holy See have been important and memorable for thousands of Catholics.
Pope Francis has had some say in the way he is to be remembered upon his death. During his time as pope, he changed the papal funeral rites. In a move that was typical of the humble attitude Pope Francis had, he has made a number of adjustments. He "seeks to emphasise even more that the funeral of the Roman Pontiff is that of a pastor and disciple of Christ and not of a powerful person of this world."
He will be remembered and mourned.
