The Vatican confirmed early this morning that Pope Francis had passed away, after months of declining health and a prolonged five-week stay in the hospital.
Cardinal Kevin Ferrell, the Camerlengo, delivered the official announcement: “Dear brothers and sisters, it is with deep sadness that I inform you of the passing of our Holy Father, Francis. At 7:35 a.m., the Bishop of Rome returned to the Father’s house.”
The 88-year-old Pope had been battling health complications stemming from double pneumonia.
In the wake of his d3ath, tributes have poured in from leaders worldwide, many honoring Pope Francis for his progressive stances on environmental protection and his advocacy for the decriminalization of homose.xuality.