Jorge Mario Bergoglio, better known as Pope Francis, became the first Pope from Latin America in March. Almost a decade later, he became one of the most beloved and popular Popes ever. However, the climate drastically changed after it was announced he had died at the age of 88.
The pope’s death was announced on Monday morning by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Vatican camerlengo. The short but substantial message breaks thousands of hearts around the world who followed the Pope over this decade.
“Dear 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. His whole 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. 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 Triune God.”