Pope Francis Passes Away at 87
On Monday, 21 April, Farrell announced the passing of Pope Francis: “At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father.” He praised the Pope’s lifelong dedication to the Church and his love for the poor and marginalised.
A Vatican statement expressed gratitude: “We commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite, merciful love of God.”
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on 17 December 1936, he became pope in 2013 at age 76. Before his death, he thanked people worldwide: “I feel carried and supported by all God’s people. Thank you all.”
The Pope had recently been treated at Rome’s Gemelli hospital for pneumonia, bronchitis, and kidney issues. He required blood transfusions and a ventilator as his condition worsened.
