THE MIRROR – Pope Francis has died at the age of 88 weeks after a severe dose of double pneumonia.
His possible cause of death has been attributed to a ‘cerebral haemorrhage’, possibly a stroke, according to Italian media outlets.
If confirmed, this may be unrelated to the respiratory problems and double pneumonia he was hospitalised with for five weeks in February and March this year.
The Bishop of Rome, which was one of his official titles, died on Easter Monday just hours after addressing the crowds in St Peter’s Square in the Vatican.
He had appeared in his wheelchair on the balcony of St Peter’s Basilica and waved to the worshippers below, saying: “Dear brothers and sisters, Happy Easter.”
In a statement this morning, Cardinal Kevin Farrell – Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church – announced Pope Francis’ death with the words:
“Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis.
“At 7:35 this morning (local time), 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.”
He added: “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 …
