News that deeply shakes the hearts of the Church and millions of faithful around the world: Pope Francis died this morning at 7:35.
The official announcement was made by Cardinal Kevin Farrell with words full of pain and emotion: “Dear brothers and sisters, it is with deep sorrow that 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 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 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.”
The Argentine Pope, humble and loved by all
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires in 1936, was elected to the papal throne on March 13, 2013, the first Jesuit Pope and the first from the American continent. During his pontificate, he distinguished himself for his style simple, humble, his attention to the poor and marginalized, and his commitment to a Church closer to the peripheries of the world. With his teaching, Francis has courageously addressed complex issues such as poverty, the environment, migration, and the reform of the Roman Curia, winning the affection not only of Catholics, but also of believers of other faiths and non-believers. His encyclical Laudato si' has become a global manifesto for the defense of Creation, and his constant call for mercy has profoundly marked the face of the contemporary Church. The news of his death has already caused a wave of emotion throughout the world.
Faithful are gathering in prayer in St. Peter's Square, where the chapel of rest will be set up. In the coming days, arrangements for the funeral and the beginning of the Sede Vacante, which will lead to the election of the new Pontiff, will be announced. Pope Francis leaves an immense spiritual legacy, a constant invitation to "not let hope be stolen from you", to live your faith with joy and to build bridges in a world often divided by hatred and indifference.
His smile, his firm but paternal voice, will remain in the hearts of those who followed and loved him throughout these twelve years of pontificate. With deep gratitude, the Church and the entire world unite in prayer to entrust Pope Francis to the eternal embrace of the Father.
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